Burning Skye Scottish Ale

Tasted following Mondays practice before taking Jen out for Valentines day. I did the write up while the Italian herb and spiced breads I made were baking in the oven.

Appearance: Deep rich copper color with hints of orange and amber. A nice head formation initially, and it didn't die down too much. What was left we a complete filmed froth with lacing about the sides. Transparency was minimal but still carbonation was visible.

Aroma: Malty and smokey peat come to mind. Much of it reminds me of mulch that has been sitting out in the sun, burning. There is also some background notes of toffee and toast. Other resembling characteristics are spiced ginger and bread dough.

Taste: Starts with a sweet caramel flavor, only to be completely masked by and earthy smokiness that plays a dominating role in this beers flavor. The finish leaves a faint peat/dirt flavor with minimal hopping. Toastiness and perhaps some fruit flavors may be drawn out of this beer, but the harsh coal pit profile reminding me of German Rauch malt or Scottish Smoked Peat Malt (duh?). All this is mostly tasted on the sides of the tongue in the mid taste, and long after into the finish.
Mouthfeel: Medium body and a carbonation that isn't too aggressive, but enough to spike the sides of the tongue.
Overall Impression: This beer really didn't do it for me. I think the smoked malt was far too overdone which completely threw off the potential of this beer. It reminded me most of the Brooklyn Winter ale, but worse. Way too thrown off.


68/100