Well, due to some kinks in the works of UHaul, I am currently stuck in Massachusetts...with no more homebrew (Egads!). I decided that I had to make the most of it and enjoy a beer from one of my favorite up-and-coming NE breweries, Pretty Things of Cambridge, MA. They really impressed Dad and me at ACBF last year with their Jack D'Or and Baby Tree, and I decided to check out St. Botolph's Town (which I wanted to try at ACBF but that Pretty Things had run out of by then!). Here goes:Appearance: Poured from a bomber into Dad's prohibition-era glass beer mug. Gorgeous off-white head that has a very creamy quality, dissipates slowly, and leaves nice lacing on the side of the glass. Dark brown color with subtle garnet hues.
Aroma: Very earthy, with beautiful caramel/toffee notes and light sweetness
Flavor: Wonderful sweetness with rich toffee, and coffee/chocolate mild roastiness in the background. Brown sugar notes throughout the taste, with a surprising amount of pleasing bitterness on the finish.
Mouthfeel: Medium carbonation and lovely smooth, rich body
Overall: Probably the best brown ale I have ever had. I want to brew something like this. Pretty Things, any chance I could get some hints on the recipe/specs? Such depth and complexity that could be enjoyed any time of the year, and could go really well with food. Almost reminds me of a brown porter...and some of the better milds I've had, honestly. At 5.9% I'd almost classify it as an imperial mild. Absolutely delicious.
I agree with your overall impression of this beer - I absolutely love it. I haven't tried their other beers yet, but this reminds me that I should...as well as pick up another bomber of St. Botolph's!
ReplyDeleteEnjoy your time in MA.