Red Hook Extra Special Bitter Ale
ABV: 5.8 %

first impression: mindful of candles, not especially bitter. a bit watery, in fact. Not a bite to be had.

Color: Amber
Aroma: faint, but delicious
Hoppiness: Not hoppy in the least.
Maltiness: Not very malty.
Weight: a bit heavy.
Mouthfeel: just slightly oily.

second impression: Not an especially impressive beer. Very little head or bubbles. No belgian lace to speak of. nice color, but otherwise, forgettable.

Samuel Smith Oatmeal Stout

Samuel Smith Oatmeal Stout

Samuel Smith Oatmeal Stout

Samuel Smith Oatmeal Stout

Samuel Smith Oatmeal Stout

Samuel Smith Oatmeal Stout

ABV: 5%
Calories: estimated at 250C
Volume: 18.7 fl oz
Glass: footed pilsener
Purchased at: West Trenton Wine and Liquor, West Trenton NJ
Price: $2.50
Consumed at: home

First Impression: Aroma is herbal, a bit dusty. Visuals include a deep red and nice head with some lacing.  Taste is only okay – the flavor is a bit muted, somewhat watery, kind of bland. Palate is good, spongey, with a dry crisp middle-length finish. Second Impression: I didn’t enjoy this a whole lot. It’s kind of weak, and while it’s easily drinkable, and not bad, it’s not great either. For the price, I expected more.

Aroma: 8 out of 10

Visuals: 4 out of 5

Taste: 6 out of 10

Palate: 4 out of 5

Overall: 14 out of 20. It just isn’t that great of a beer, and when you have something like their great Oatmeal Stout to compare it with, why would you pay the same amount for this?