Review - Casco Bay Brewing Company's Carrabassett Winter Ale
"In Carrabassett Valley we love winter, the nip in the air, the snow on the mountain, and the beer! With it's deep amber color, sturdy yet complex malt base, and unique hop finish this 6% ABV winter warmer style ale is sure to please the palette without the overpowering alcohol bite of many of the seasonal offerings. This is the perfect beer after a day out in the cold or for a cozy evening in by the fire." -- Casco Bay
Pours a light brown to dark amber color with a slightly off-white fizzy head with good retention. Sticky lacing above a slightly cloudy body. Aroma is of tart green apples with a bit of sourness on the back end. Initial taste is tart with some more of the green apple hints coming through with some sweetness, and the faintest bitterness comes through at the finish. Medium bodied, it leaves a dry mouthfeel with a creamy texture.
Absent the spices of a typical winter beer, the alcohol is subdued and the beer has a nice balance of malt sweetness and hop bitterness.
Reviewed on November 23rd, 2008.