BEER REVIEW: Éphémère (Apple) Ale

BeerAdvocate overall review: B (797 reviews to date).

This Canadian ale (brewed by Unibroue with apple juice, coriander and curacao peels) tastes like green apples. The scent reminds me of green apples, and the ale is definitely tinged with the flavor. What makes this ale unique, however, is the aftertaste — which is eerily reminiscent of a sour apple Jolly Rancher. The beer (5.5 percent ABV) went down smoothly and felt light and crisp on the tongue, without any distracting bitterness. It may be an average fruit ale, however, except for that aftertaste — which, admittedly, is a matter of preference to which many beer connoisseurs may render a frown.

This ale, if served cold, may make for a refreshing pick-me-up on a warmer late-autumn day. In any case, I’d happily enjoy another.

Personal verdict: A-.

As part of the ever-increasing portfolio that my dear readers have come to expect from A Mild Voice of Reason, today I inaugurate a new feature to this humble blog: Vice reviews. Yes. At long last, and by pseudo-popular demand, you now may revel in knowing my opinion about various beers, wines, liquors and cigars.

BEER REVIEW: Samuel Smith’s, The Famous Taddy Porter

BeerAdvocate overall review: A- (942 reviews to date).

This beer is hands-down a solid, pleasurable pick. Brewed in England by Samuel Smith Old Brewery, this porter packs a smooth finish — graced by hints of creqmy caramel — without any harsh edge or unpleasant aftertaste. Even paired with a cigar, the beer held its own with a crisp flavor that paired well with a mild Macanudo. The amber-hued beverage had a pleasant, citrus scent without any overpowering hint of alcohol, and the bubbles were well-formed and consistent, providing a slightly fizzy palate.

This is the sort of beer I could drink one after another without a second thought.

Personal verdict: A.

As part of the ever-increasing portfolio that my dear readers have come to expect from A Mild Voice of Reason, today I inaugurate a new feature to this humble blog: Vice reviews. Yes. At long last, and by pseudo-popular demand, you now may revel in knowing my opinion about various beers, wines, liquors and cigars.
BEER REVIEW: Samuel Smith’s, The Famous Taddy Porter
BeerAdvocate overall review: A- (942 reviews to date).
This beer is hands-down a solid, pleasurable pick. Brewed in England by Samuel Smith Old Brewery, this porter packs a smooth finish — graced by hints of creqmy caramel — without any harsh edge or unpleasant aftertaste. Even paired with a cigar, the beer held its own with a crisp flavor that paired well with a mild Macanudo. The amber-hued beverage had a pleasant, citrus scent without any overpowering hint of alcohol, and the bubbles were well-formed and consistent, providing a slightly fizzy palate.
This is the sort of beer I could drink one after another without a second thought.
Personal verdict: A.