Beer Review: Longman Old Man Ale

Brewery: Long Man

ABV: 4.3%

Location: Litlington, East Sussex

Style: Old Ale

Aroma: Hints of toffee, chocolate, caramel with a faint whisp of coffee rolling in the background.

Colour: Dark brown with a one finger off white head. 

Taste: Moreish, medium bodied, notes of coffee rolls around the tongue, some oakiness in the background, hints of chocolate come through the use of malt. It has a depth of mature flavourings, with a touch of sourness that is typical of this style. This aided by the smooth and creamy mouthfeel that brings everything together. The hoppy bitterness is somewhat missing despite what it says in the tin, and the lack of a kick from the roasted malt lets the side down.

Verdict: A decent example of a sessionable old ale, the flavours are on the light and gentle side, but they are discernable enough to leave an impression on the tongue. The malt plays a key role in rounding up the flavours, although its lack of strength, leaves the flavour muted and lacking a bit of character. 

Rating: 7/10

Beer Review: Long Man Best Bitter

Brewery: Long Man 

Style: Bitter

ABV: 4%

Location: Polegate, East Sussex

Aroma: Plenty of malt, with hints of a caramel coming through and some mild fruitness.

Colour: Orangey brown with a thin white head, that takes a while to dissipate.

Taste: Rather bitter on the tongue, can detect elements of sweetness, hints of smokiness and hedgerow berries. Mouthfeel is smooth, without being too carbonated which is good. A full bodied best bitter, that packs in a lot of flavour despite its low ABV.

Verdict: Although low in ABV, it has heaps of flavour for a session beer. The use of various malts is particuarly potent through its smokey and biscuty elements that are undercut with a hint of a caramel fruity sweetness. The hops are also at play here, with the profound bitter edge that reminds the drinker that its a traditional best bitter. A fine example of a Sussex best bitter, would definately give the likes of Harveys of Lewes a run for their money.

Rating: 8/10