Dogwood Winter Ale (2001)
Dogwood Brewing Company

 

Acquired via trade. This really didn't strike me as a winter brew. Dark gold color with a thin head (for Dogwood ales especially). Malty, lightly spiced and citrusy aroma. Flavor was malty as well with hints of spice, vanilla, and citrus. I am glad I drank this one in the summer instead of winter because I think it is suited much better to the warmer season.

Pours an indistinct golden amber color, modest beige head and fine lace that clings in sheets to the glass. The nose fruity, with malt undertones. Sweet start, orangey flavors, top moderate in mouthfeel, the finish is precisely hopped, tart, benignly acidic, the aftertaste malt dry and long lasting. A quite drinkable beer, and another good beer from the Southland.

I'm really surprised they managed to sell and make this beer in Georgia. Great big yeasty, citrusy, spicy aroma. Very large head with meringue-like stiffness. Flavor is perhaps less spicy than the typical belgian strong pale, but it's also a bit sweeter and a maltier. Excellent beer. The only real problem is that , like several of the other Dogwoods I've had in the bottle, it's a foamer. Be very wary when opening a bottle from Dogwood.