HIGH TEA IN EXILE ~ NICKEL BROOK

Sampled on cask. It is an English Mild style beer, brewed with the addition of Earl Grey tea and lemons. It poured a dark golden colour, with a little cloudiness. It is very pleasant. The flavours of tea and lemon are there but not overpowering in the least. The beer contained some lemon and floral notes on the nose. The tea complimented the light malts and the lemon takes the edge of the tannins of the tea. A very nice blend. Unfortunately this was a one-off brew.

5% from Burlington, Ontario

~ SAINT OF CIRCUMSTANCE ~

 COLLECTIVE ARTS BREWING CO.

Collective Arts have the coolest labels, here is why, to quote their website, “We are a grassroots beer company fusing the craft of brewing with the inspired talents of emerging and seasoned artists, musicians, photographers & filmmakers. Our brewery is dedicated to promote artists and raise creative consciousness through the sociability of craft beer.”  I bought several Saint of Circumstance bottles and each one had a different label.  There is an open call to artists near and far to submit designs and they run off about 85 labels in each series.  They are on to Series 5 now.

Saint of Circumstance is a Blonde Ale infused with the zests of orange and lemon.  The citrus is highlighted with Citra, Amarillo and Sorachi Ace hops.

Both the nose and the taste have components of lemon, grapefruit, orange and a light malt.  The pleasant subtle bitterness at finish is perfect.  I really enjoyed this beer, great warm weather session beer.

4.7% from Waterloo, Ontario    19 IBU