on THE TAPHANDLE

Wassail Winter Ale, an Old Ale by Full Sail Brewing

12 ounce bottle. This ale was a beauty. It poured a brilliant dark red with an inch thick cream-colored head. The head stuck around and left some nice lacing behind. The aroma and flavor were both a mixture of molasses, light grain, resin, light woodiness, brown sugar, and some undetermined spices. There was also a subtle dark fruit flavor that I am almost convinced was cranberry.

The initial flavor was a heavy sweetness that allowed some bitterness to squeak in on the finish. Overall, I would describe this ale as "heavy." It sat heavy on the tongue and against the palate, with only soft carbonation to lighten the heaviness. It was heavy on flavor, balancing malts and hops rather well. It was heavy on its malts.

This is what a winter ale should taste like!