Naughty Hildegard ESB

Naughty Hildegard ESB is named in named in honour of Hildegard von Bingen, a really interesting polymath and Benedictine abbess who was, among other things, credited with recording the utility of hops as a preservative--so we owe her. Brewed in Victoria, BC by Driftwood Brewery, NH is a 6.5% alcohol ale that comes in snazzy 650mL bottles. It’s a crystal clear copper-hued ale that pours with a layer of off-white head.

I found NH to be a quirky and enjoyable hybrid of an ale, with metallic and malt notes characteristic of an extra special bitter, but also a pretty generous dose of dank and juicy hops. It had a nose of caramel, malt, and, unexpectedly, a touch of nectarine. The flavour was similarly constructed—sweet and malty, with a bit of a fruity streak—though with a fairly robust level of bitterness to seal the deal. 

 

At a hoppy 6.5%, Naughty Hildegard doesn’t fit neatly into the ESB mould, nor that of an American pale ale. Despite its somewhat off-style traits, the beer was really quite delicious. I’d definitely buy it again.

Rating: 8.5 out of 10.