Summit Winter Ale

Appearance: A clear deep dark not-opaque garnet colored brew with a light tan rocky head made up of small distinct bubbles.

Aroma: On opening the bottle the aromas of molasses and rich bready roasted malts were evident. These aromas remained constant, neither increasing nor decreasing, as the pint was raised to take the first sip of brew.

Mouth feel: A medium body was enhanced by a creamy effervescence.

Flavor: The main accents are rich roasted caramel with a touch of molasses. There is very little evidence of hop flavors until they help build the slightly drier than expected finish.

Finish: The finishing flavors echo the main flavors with the additional support of the hops that leaves a drier than expected finish.

Comments:

As noted in the Heading of this blog, this bottle of Summit Winter Ale has been in the refrigerator, hiding in the back, for some time. The printing on the bottle suggests it “Should be enjoyed by Feb 10.” I can tell you that was February 10, 2005.

            For a brew that is over two years old I can assure you it is one I finished after making my “tasting notes.” There were a few odd looking darker brown spots that rose to the top of the head before it was reduced to glass-lace as I finished the brew. It should be noted that the refrigerator is closer to 35F than 40F and has entertained a carton or two of milk for over a week without ill effect to either the milk or the ambiance of the refrigerator.

VITAL STATISTICS:

Original Gravity:          14.5 Plato

Color (Degree L):         48

Bittering Units: 38

Alcohol / vol.               5.9%

Hops:                           Willamette, Fuggle, Tettnanger.

Malt:                            two-row Harrington, Caramel, Black Malt.

http://www.summitbrewing.com/home.php

What others thought: (The posts relate to the 06 version of the product.)

RateBeer:

http://www.ratebeer.com/beer/summit-winter-ale/9939/

Beer Advocate:

http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/467/2233/

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