Roaming Man
Pretentious Beer Co.

At the Brewery, this had a nice head. Now, from the crowler, there is a little ring of fine, dark chestnut foam. At the Brewery, it had nice lacing. Here there is none. The beer is jet black in a Pretentious Beer Glass Company malti pint. When put to the light, dark cola highlights shine through. Scores that follow are from the crowler pour. My first Pretentious Beer Company beer in a Pretentious Beer Glass Company glass.

The bourbon aroma is bold. While alcohol fumes are present, they are controlled. Figs are prominent, followed by prunes and molasses. The dark roasted malt holds up well, however, is secondary. Warmth brings strong aroma of plum pudding, making me wish I had held out for the Christmas season before opening the crowler.

Flavors deliver on the promise made by the aroma. All of the above are present and progress impressively. Late bitterness is balanced by sweetness and, while strong, they are controlled by the fruit and malt. I think there is some bittersweet chocolate as well. The finish is long, strong, and continues the above progression.

A bold, dense presence occupies the palate. Thick body is soft and smooth against lightly warming alcohol and light carbonation.

Memories of my Grandfather's study fill my mind with bourbon, cigars, thick oak furniture, and leather chairs, surrounded by books in a comfortably dark room. This is a superb sipping beer, to be enjoyed either with deep, thoughtful conversation, or reading on a cold, late-Autumn evening. Roaming Man was definitely worth the trip to Knoxville, and I hope to return for more. The folks, and the whole experience, were superb.