By Jack on June 11, 2011
When I heard that Beer Cartel had opened a shopfront in Artarmon, I was there the same day to check it out. The range was good, I’m hoping it gets even better though. This was one of a few beers I picked up.
Look
Deep brown to black in colour, with a fine bone/off-white head, leaves good lacing.
Smell
Very faint, possible due to the IPA consumed prior. Slight roasted malt aroma, with some chocolate.
Taste
Quite roasty, almost burt flavour. Sweet malts provide some balance. Hops are not really a factor, but that is not unusual for a porter I guess. I found the carbonation a little bit overpowering, but it died down as the beer warmed up, and became vastly better.
Feel
Feels overcarbonated to me, but doesn’t look it. Medium body. Once warmed, the mouthfeel improved hugely. It became far smoother – I think I would have enjoyed it more overall if I’d let it warm up to begin with.
Drink
Quite drinkable, but a one-off for me. Definitely let it warm up a bit before drinking.
Posted in Beer |
By Jack on June 11, 2011
Not sure where I picked this one up, but I kept it to myself, as I know that dad is not a fan of sour beers. It is a Flemish Red Ale, matured in oak.
Look
Deep brown in colour, with red highlights against light. No head or lacing, and quite hazy.
Smell
I got aromas of port, oak, and red wine, along with sour dark fruits, sweetness and some alcohol.
Taste
A sour grape flavour dominates the flavour, along with the oaky flavour. Hints of red wine.
Feel
Thin to medium body, low carbonation. Sour.
Drink
Definitely a sipper, but is quite drinkable if you enjoy sour beers.
Posted in Beer |
By Jack on April 27, 2011
I’m not sure where I picked this up, but it was in the fridge for a while before I drank it. It was 2008 vintage, 7.8% ABV.
Look
Gonzo is pitch black, not the slightest amount of light seems to get through it. It pours with a moderate tan head, which fades to a thin cover, but persists.
Smell
The aroma of Gonzo is dominated by roast malts, coffee. It also has hints of chocolate and alcohol.
Taste
Quite sweet to begin with, with dark fruits. There is some bitterness in the middle, which is replaced again by chocolate and coffee in the finish. The finish is roasted and bitter, with some alcohol. Lingers nicely.
Feel
Exactly what I felt with. Medium to full bodied, low carbonation, and nicely warming on a cold night.
Drink
A very rewarding beer. Perfect for a sipper at the end of the night, or when you want something a bit special.
Posted in Beer |