This English Porter pours a deep mahogany with a resilient tan head, offering a botanical Dutch twist on a classic style. The aroma is a rich layering of toasty malt and milk chocolate, elevated by the distinct, creamy scent of vanilla and the woody, herbal depth of licorice root. On the palate, the sharp bitterness of roasted black malt is artfully softened by the smoothing presence of vanilla, creating a balanced sweetness. Earthy licorice notes linger into the finish, complementing the biscuity malt profile and light esters for a robust yet approachable experience that remains smooth and well-rounded.
Appearance.Dark brown to near-black (30 SRM) with clear ruby highlights when held to the light. Crowned by a moderate, persistent light tan head with fine lacing.
Aroma.Moderate intensity featuring bready and toasty malt notes with a clear chocolate overtone. Distinctive secondary aromas of sweet vanilla and earthy licorice root are prominent, backed by a faint floral hop character and subtle fruity esters typical of the style.
Taste.Initial impressions of toasted biscuit and caramel malt followed by a mid-palate of dark chocolate. The addition of vanilla provides a smoothing sweetness that tempers the potential harshness of the black malt. Earthy, spicy licorice root adds complexity to the finish, which is balanced between a lingering malt sweetness and a clean, medium-low hop bitterness.
Mouthfeel.Medium body with a notably smooth, creamy texture likely enhanced by the botanical additions. Carbonation is moderate, and the alcohol provides a light, well-integrated warmth.