V-squared is a handsome dark ale--a
gloomy auburn beer that wears a stylish derby of tawny head. It's
almost as dark as a standard porter, and with that head, one could
easily make that mistake. Aromatically, is malty and quite nutty. Its
flavour is a quite interesting blend of bourbon-y vanilla, nuttiness,
leather, caramel, and brown sugar. It has some bitterness parked out
back, but substantial malt notes are the ones taking dad's convertible
for a joyride (ignore the metaphorical motoring--don't drink and
drive!).
Not too sweet, nor too strong, Vicar's
Vice jams a lot of flavour into a single bottle. It has a wide and
evolving taste profile--the label suggested that it would "unveil more
depth as it warms", though as I drank it outdoors in December, I can't
speak to that. After all, I really wanted that cigar! That said, as my
chalice emptied, I was treated to a bit more evolved bitterness on the
finish.
This beer gave me little to complain
about. It's not a tipple I'd invite to a Tuesday after work social or a
Saturday house party, but it is one that'd star as an after dinner
treat. Vicar's Vice will never be my favourite Amsterdam offering
(especially competing with the remarkable Boneshaker), but it's
certainly a neat one that I'd be glad to enjoy again.
Rating: 8.5 out of 10.
No comments:
Post a Comment