“Beginning with complex belgian esters on the nose, followed up with rich malt character layered with bourbon. It then finishes with notes of gingerbread, vanilla and spice from the Amazonian amburana wood.”

Glassware: Trappist tulip.

Appearance: Dark brown with a deep mahogany gradient on the edges. It whips up a finely beaded two finger head which holds its shape pretty well. Eventually it forms a collar with wavy lace clinging to the glass as we hook in.

Aroma: We’d heard about Amburana wood before so we’re intrigued to see how the flavours impart themselves in a beer. Not getting a whole lot off it initially… actually the Belgian yeasty/estery notes are the dominant scent. And it’s a pleasure to take in too! Smells a bit like banana split with a side of bubblegum, vanilla essence, cocoa and candi sugars. Creamy caramel and a touch of cigar box are thrown in for good measure.

Flavour: From what we remember Amburana offers a spicy woody quality and although it’s pretty subtle we can pick up a unique, almost rye-like spiciness that works in to the sweet and chocolatey Belgian characters nicely. It hits a dry, spicy and bourbon-esque quality midway then delivers a dry, complex and kinda toasty finish.

Mouthfeel: Pretty slick upfront then it dries up in the swallow. Mild-medium body and Co2. The 6.2% ABV is reasonably well buried.

Overall: Our first crack at this West Australian brewery. Pretty ambitious beer but we must admit they’ve pulled it off quite well. May have to keep a closer eye on these guys! Not bad at all.