“This bitter has delicious fruity aromas of passionfruit and grapefruit, which are produced by ‘dry-hopping’. The hops add flavour and aroma without bitterness at this point, and give the beer a great pungency and depth. The beer also has a rich malt profile which balances the bitterness well”.
Poured into a Shaker glass the appearance displays a clear amber with a frothy 1 finger head that collapsed quickly to a halo. Minimal spotted lacing being omitted on the glass. From the 1st whiff you can’t be blamed for thinking there was an APA in your glass. Bitter, yet fruity hops such as grapefruit, passion fruit and lychee dominate. After a steady swirl of the glass sits an otherwise dormant caramel and spice is detected. Slightly buttery. Mild-medium carbonation with a subtle dry mouth feel. Big, fruit driven palate reflects grapefruit notes upfront with soft hints of mandarin, orange peel and caramel in the mid-palate. Long citrus finish with good length. 5.2 % ABV. ESB? We’d say APA. But a very good one at that. Still rates highly with us. Damn good brew.