Gruit
Flying Dog Brewery

 

 

On draft, in a 10oz goblet.

a - A dark, rich brown with minimal head.

s - Like an old man's cologne, something with a name like "English Leather" or "Sterling Grey" ... it's unbelievably rich as dozens of potent fragrances shoot past you just beyond the edge of memory. It evokes a barbershop or a tack room.

t - Like the smell, it's a tapestry of different strong earthy flavors, rich baking spices, a little stone fruit, a touch flowery. A very pleasant finish as the best parts of the beer linger with you for a while.

m - Normal, average carbonation, a little bit oily but not in a bad way.

o - I liked this beer a lot. It's definitely a distinct departure from the daily brew, but it's such a rich cocktail of flavors that truly collaborate rather than compete with one another. It resembles an adult take on a root beer or Dr. Pepper-like beverage.

"We resurected this ancient style of beer, brewed with no hops, for our final Brewhouse Rarities release of 2012. Floral aromas greet the nose, followed by sweet and roasted malt notes with subtle smokiness and herbal tea-like bitterness. Specialty Malts: Wyermann Vienna, Roasted, Black, Smoked, Flaked Barley. Specialty Ingredients: Horehound (for bittering), Heather and Lavender (for flavor and aroma). Hops: None"

From 02/24/13 notes. Had on tap at Rattle n Hum in NYC; they also had International Arms on tap, this is a different beer. Served in a pint glass.

a - Pours a deep amber-brown color with two inches of off white head and moderate carbonation evident.

s - Smells of spices, pepper, fruity malts, floral notes, and earthy malts. Lot of spice to it and the fruit is light, but not bad.

t - Tastes of pepper, earthy notes, musty, spices, yeast, light fruity malts, and toasted malts. More pepper and spice than the nose and less fruit; a step down for me.

m - Medium body and moderate carbonatioin. Overall pretty easy to drink. Nice mouthfeel.

o - Overall an interesting beer but too much pepper and spice, especially in the taste. Would have liked some more fruit. Cool to try a style I don't have often but don't think I like gruits all that much.