IRISH BOOT ~ WELLINGTON BREWERY

Sampled on draught, this Irish Red ale poured slightly hazy deep brown with copper highlights. It had almost no head and the carbonation was very soft, verging on flat. It had a robust nose full of malts, and fruity esters. The taste contained rich roasted malts and lots of orchard fruit, especially plums. The brew also contained notes of molasses and sweetness reminiscent of Belgian yeast. The finish was semi-clean with a lingering pleasant burnt bitterness and sweetness. This seems to be a one off, I can find no record of it in the net. A pleasant brew after along day.

5.6% from Guelph, Ontario

STRONG PATRICK ~ BEAU’S

Strong Patrick is Beau’s amped up (6.7% ABV) interpretation of Irish Red Ale. It is Number 18 in there “Wild Oats’ series. Red Ale’s are traditionally lightly hopped, well balanced with a toasted malt character. Sampled on draught, this beer poured a rich red coppery hue with a small cap of cream coloured head. The small head left good lacing as it fell. After brewing some of this beer was aged in whiskey barrels and the remixed with the original beer, this gives some lovely nuanced on the nose. The aroma had caramel, malts, dark fruit, and a subtle vanilla and sweet whiskey imparted from the barrel aging. The taste is malt forward, much as the nose would imply, but there are also notes of toast, roasted nuts and fruit with hints of the barrel aging. I found the body to be a medium-full and the carbonation to be medium low. The finish with dry with a beautiful light floral hop. I found this to be dangerous drinkable as the Alcohol is well hidden. A very pleasant brew, I look forward to having a few more.

6.7% from Vankleek Hills, Ontario 24 IBU