Iron Hearth
Faircraft Brauhaus

On tap at Faircraft Brauhaus in Fairport, NY.

This one pours a dark-ish brown color, with a small head, and lots of lacing.

This smells like campfire smoke, some earthiness, caramel, toffee, and brown sugar.

This has the smokiness pretty forward on the palate, but it’s not overwhelming – at least for someone who really enjoys smoky beers. The maltiness is strong enough to stand up the heavy smoke, with caramel, brown sugar, doughy bread, and pumpernickel flavors.

This is medium bodied, slightly creamy, with a great drinkability.

Pours dark amber to bright copper and is crystal clear (SRM 13-15). A big, two-inch, light khaki froth is all too brief, leaving a thin veil and spotty rings on a Pretentious Beer Glass Company Weizen glass.

The aroma has a moderate mix of campfire and bacon, followed by caramel and malt.

The flavor picks up the smoke, however, it is lighter than expected. Sweetness gives way to bitterness, though rather modest. The finish is astringent and a drawback.

A medium to light body with an oily texture. Alcohol is as expected, while carbonation is light and soft.

This is an easy-drinking beer. It is a worth entry beer for those who are less acquainted with smoked styles. Kielbasa and German Potato Salad work well as a pairing with this beer.