Wooden Teeth
Ex Novo Brewing

 

An amazing gift from Phil! Cracking this one at fridge temp and allowing to warm. Pours a beautiful dark brown with a little amount of light brown head. The nose is mind blowing. Tons of toffee, raisin, port, dark fruit, and a touch of whiskey. This nose is for those who love a LOT of robust notes. So freaking deep and inviting. Taste follows the nose, but with an abrupt hit of whiskey upfront. Again, this is so complex and robust on the flavor. Lots of rich coffee, some dark chocolate, raisin, red grapes, some yeast. Some smoky leather and a big dose of candy sweetness come through. The mouthfeel is rich and heavy, and easily hangs with the best of the best.

 

Not the prettiest beer. I've seen uglier, pretty much on a daily basis around these parts, but Wooden Teeth is somehow an appropriate enough of a name. It's a ruddy brown color with an unfiltered cranberry juice red tint to it. Lazy bubbles eventually support the beauty to this beast, a smooth and creamy looking foam like that of a fresh latte. It's stubborn, like a true Scotsman.

This is already a winner in my book. Candied figs can be smelled immediately off the unveiling of the cap. Caramel and wood, a dash of vanilla, and a hefty cinnamon roll give me enough reason to never stop inhaling.

But the inevitable takes place, and what a pleasure it is. More raisin like than fig. And these raisins have gone through some royal treatment. Drenched in whiskey, rolled in a light dusting of chocolate and cinnamon, wrapped in old leather, coated in caramel, placed in an oak barrel, then smoked with a hint of peat moss. The linger long after gives an impression of a whiskey spiked cream soda.

Lighter on the tongue than expected, with a sweet and spiced start leading to a smooth burn of alcohol and a dry, nearly crisp finish. A smoky hint and wood influence bring balance to what might be an overly sweet beer, but as to be expected with the style. Even at 13.4% abv, this is remarkably easy to drink. Dangerous, in fact.

I obviously have to compare this with Backwoods Bastard, Wulver, Central Waters, and Captain of the Coast. Well, I'd have to say it's right up there with the likes. Sold. Glad I did. Need to grab more.

Slainte!