Winter Ale
Black Oak Brewing Co.

Came in a black capped, nondescript brown bottle, straight from the brewery and out of northyorksammy's personal stash, so many thanks to him for the rare sample. Pours out a stunning clear copper hue, a thin off-white head that recedes to a very thin cap. Big hops up front, cascade I think, followed by malt and brown sugar (boozy rum) and dried fruit. At first sip the flavour is all hops, but as it warms up a rich malt can be tasted, alcohol taste is present, and full circle back to strong herbal hops. Rich pleasant mouthfeel, I bet this stuff is very comforting on cold snowy winter night. My first sample of a Black Oak product, and I am quite impressed. The flavour is quite bold, I've had my fill after one bottle, but would not say no to another at a later time.

Malt, spice and coffee, easy drink. Fruit mid-sip. Brown sugar or is it maple? Darker colour not quite brown. Bit of creamy head in first pour. Dry but not too dry aftertaste, nice late evening instead of coffee. Balance, though malty more than hoppy.