Salem Porter

◎ Appearance

Deep black with a warm mahogany edge at the rim, signalling the depth of roasted grain character within. The head forms dense and persistent, clinging to the glass with fine lacework. Clarity is opaque, as befits the style, with carbonation suggesting a gentle, sustaining pour.

◌ Aroma

The nose opens with pronounced roasted grain and toasted malt notes, immediately evoking warm buttered toast and crunchy biscuit. Hazelnut and almond follow, layered beneath—nutty sweetness without cloying. A measured spice from Goldings, Bobek and Challenger hops threads through without dominating, kept in balance by the Maris Otter and chocolate malt backbone.

◐ Taste

Entry is smooth and rich, with immediate hazelnut and dark chocolate notes from the pale chocolate and black malts. Mid-palate builds a honeyed, toasted character—reminiscent of warm biscuit and liquorice—supported by a gentle bitterness (32 IBU) that arrives late and recedes without harshness. The wheat malt adds a subtle complexity without cloudiness.

◑ Finish

The aftertaste is sustained and moreish, echoing hazelnut and cocoa with a light spice that lingers. At 4.7% ABV, the warmth is present without alcohol bite, allowing the roasted and nutty character to close the palate gracefully.