Beer Review: Orkney Puffin Ale

Brewery: Orkney 

Style: Bitter 

ABV: 4.5%

Location: Stromness, Orkney

Aroma: Malty, tart, a mild hedgerow fruitiness, some hints of blackcurrant

Colour: A deep brown colour, with a one finger off white head.

Taste: Profundly bitter, with some malt coming through, a spicy kick does come through in the background. Some dry biscuitness present, a cloying yet substantial mouthfeel. Good lacing on the glass, some hints of fruitness though not overwhelming. A good example of a best bitter if you don't mind the lack of sweetness.

Verdict: Brimming with overhwelming bitterness with a potent spiciness that gathers in the heather, ready to assault the tonsils. It has a peppery warming like feel, yet the overall dryness leaves an uncomfortable effect that lingers long after finishing the drink. It lacks a balance of flavours, as the bitter notes take centre stage, leaving any maltiness and residual sweetness floundering in the background. Although it's a relatively sessionable beer, it is not an easy one to drink with.

Rating: 6/10

Beer Review: McEwans Champion

Brewery: McEwans

Style: Strong Ale

ABV: 7.2%

Location: Edinburgh, Scotland

Aroma: A whiff of fruitness instantly invades the senses, with notes of berries, cherries and figs all in the mix. A background of a caramel comes through, along with a strong hint on banana. 

Colour: Deep ruby red, with a two-finger tan coloured head.

Flavour: A pleasant oak like bitterness is immedietely noticeable, assaulting the tongue with every sip. The background of banana is evident, along with hints of sweetness the help offset some of the bitter notes. There are traces of sherry in the background, which is quite understandable given its scene. It is aided by a creamy mouthfeel, with good lacing around the glass.

Verdict: A potent yet thoroughly enjoyable beer with plenty of flavour and personality. With it's multi-layered notes of banana, oak, sherry and caramel, it could easily compare to a Belgian tripel or trappist beer. This is a drink to savour slowly and not to drink a hurry. It is easy to see why this is a classic drink north of the border.

Rating: 8/10