Winter Lager
State of Brewing

Appearance: A clear dark amber body is crowned my a modest, but persistent off-white head. Thin, finely-beaded lacing coats the glass wall. Modest stream of fat bubbles rise quickly to the surface.

Aroma: Prominent Winter spices dominate the aroma. In no particular order, there is anise, vanilla, cinnamon, ginger, and dried orange rind. Dark malt and a bit of wood are present, also.

Taste: Opens with a melange of spices and dark malt. As with the aroma, lots of spice, anise, vanilla, cinnamon, ginger, orange rind, with the anise and ginger the most prominent. As the taste progresses, there is an undercurrent of brown sugar, which the other flavors ride atop. late in the taste, the wood notes and lesser vanilla become more prominent. The finish offers ginger, anise, and wood.

Mouth feel: Very soft and pleasantly full, with only slight, soft carbonation.

Drinkability/notes: Very pleasant and drinkable, very appropriate for the Winter season, though not particularly similar to any Winter beer I have had, perhaps it is a little like some versions of the lost Anchor Our Special Ale. Whatever it may be compared to, it is good and a worthwhile try.

Presentation: Packaged in a standard twelve-ounce brown glass long neck bottle with a pry-off crown, served in a La Fin du Monde tulip.

To spice forward seems a little rushed. Not a lot of balance but OK overall. Not one I would look for again. Needs a little refining, like much from this brewery.