Thursday, December 16, 2010

Alpha Klaus Porter

Tasted following a frigid run through the Rock. Enjoyed with Provolone and Havarti cheese. Served in a snifter.

Appearance: Black with a creamy dense off white/brown head. Head retention is mediocre with some lacing. So dark it leaves little to transparency. Brown around the edges of the glass.
Aroma: Strong coffee and roasted flavor followed by a rich citrus and pine nose. Aroma exhibits caramel and a robust chocolate sweetness with a spicy finish.
Taste: Initially the flavor is quite surprising. I really enjoy the combination of sweet roasted malty with the sweetness of the hops that add a grapefruit zest flavor. The aftertaste is fantastic especially for a porter. There isn't really any harsh burnt, molasses, or tobacco flavors whatsoever. All the bitterness that resembles Pine and tropical fruit definitely comes from the C hops. Chocolate and vanilla develop mid glass along with biscuit and the rich caramel roasted sweetness continues to play its part as the foundation. Finally to finish of the flavor is some spicing that resembles the aftertaste of brown sugar but with some cinnamon as well.
Mouthfeel: Medium body with a moderate amount of carbonation. This beer is creamy and smooth to texture. No tackiness.
Overall Impression: A very interesting porter that exhibits a truly authentic hop profile almost reminiscent of a Black IPA, but with a roasted base malt. The integration of these flavors make for a very complex taste and aroma that I have little experience with.


87/100

2 comments:

  1. Came across your blog this afternoon while looking for pics for mine, pretty good beer reviews and very well done. Read your profile and saw your an Augie guy as well. Being from Illinois, two of my goood friends ran there as well (older though). Keep up the goodwork and the 3Floyds.

    http://kentuckybrewreview.wordpress.com

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  2. Hey John, I'm glad you like the blog, It's been a lot of work, but its certainly an enjoyable project.

    I'll have to make it out to kentucky for some Brewery reviews.

    I'll add your blog to my role,

    Thanks!

    Tim

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