Brewery: Kirkby Lonsdale
Style: Stout
ABV: 5.5%
Location: Kirkby Lonsdale, Cumbria
Aroma: Plums, raisins, figs, coffee, chocolate and some
strength in the background.
Colour: Jet black with one finger tan coloured head, which
is rather low by Northern standards.
Flavour: Named after the Jubilee class of steam locomotives
that used to run on the LMS, this stout understandably tries to echo the
smokiness of the engines. Roasted malt immediately comes to the fore giving off
a rich and smoky bitterness, supplanted by a background of liquoriche sweetness
that helps offset overwhelming dryness. The mouthfeel is smooth and creamy
which makes it pleasant to drink. The sweetness is relegated to the background
and surprisingly there is no hint of fruitiness; while Black and chocolate malt
are particularly noticeable along with the use of roasted barley which gives
this drink it’s character. There is some strength in the background given it’s
ABV, the flavours come across quite strongly.
Verdict: A rather bitter stout, which would be ideal for
lovers of dry Irish style stouts. The balance is a little top heavy for my
liking, with the roasted malt taking centre stage, overtaking any hints of
discernible sweetness. The bitterness gives a lasting effect in the mouth, and
its strength borders on strong so drink with care. The mouthfeel though makes
it more pleasant to drink, and its nice to see it retains its head unlike most
bottled beers I’ve sampled, although after a while it can be a little heavy on
the appetite which is quite normal for stout or porter. As far as stouts go,
this one has character highly reminiscent of coal, but the bitterness is too
overwhelming, which gives the beer a lack of balance of flavours.
Rating: 7/10
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