Tartan Titan
Against The Grain Brewery

 

Served On-Tap

A — Pours a deep leathery brown hue out of the tap into the glass. A bit of clarity shows through around the edges. There is a creamy, mocha colored head on-top that sits behind and leaves some nice consistent lacing.

S — Smells quite sweet initially, lots of dark fruit character, raisins, plums, even a bit of an almost rotten strawberry and red apple component. Underneath is a leathery, caramel like sweetness.

T — Like the nose, though a bit subdued, little bit of a sweet and chewy leathery component, still accentuated by dried dark fruits.

M — Medium bodied, actually quite light for the style, ample carbonation.

O — Good overall, but it does seem to be a bit light for the style and a touch too sweet.

 

With the smokehouse at their back, the natural tendencies are to make beer that complement or mimic their food. One thing's for sure though, much of what Against the Grain brewers will make are going to be a lot like this one- a wee heavy.

Their strong Scottish ale pours with the tawny brown hues that's expected of scotch whisky or port wine. Dense but short-statured, its blanket of foam stands and laces proudly against aromatic of molasses and sorghum with peppery and a lightly smoked backdrop. Then its luxurious taste slathers the palate with kettle caramelization of toffee, molasses and oddly- root beer.

Through the center, the malt flavors compete with the malty-rich flavor of barleywine, though its body is creamy and moderate. Black-strap molasses and light honey begin to retreat while elements of coffee, chocolate and walnut work their way up the culinary ladder. Peppery and peaty, its Scotch roots reveal themselves as the late taste favors a balance and friendly session.

Full-bodied and sweet, the beer never approaches cloying texture or fatigues the palate unnecessarily. Yet the finish is rewarded with grilled fruit, rummy alcohol warmth and extended root beer sweetness.