Fortitude

◎ Appearance

Fortitude pours a clear amber with a warm, honeyed tone. The head is modest but persistent, forming a fine white collar that leaves delicate lacing on the glass as you drink. Carbonation is moderate and even, befitting a cask ale that translates well to other formats.

◌ Aroma

The nose leads with soft, biscuity Maris Otter malt character—toasted grain and a hint of honey. English hop varieties contribute restrained herbal and earthy notes, with subtle citrus undertones from the Jester, while Fuggles and Challenger add gentle spice and dried-herb complexity. There is no aggressive hop profile; instead, a clean, balanced interplay between malt sweetness and noble hop restraint.

◐ Taste

The palate opens with a clean, slightly sweet malt foundation that recalls English ale tradition. Mid-palate the beer fills out with a gentle malty body and a measured bitterness that arrives without harshness, building to a satisfying finish. The hop bitterness is purposeful but never dominant, allowing the Maris Otter's warmth and the subtle spice of the English varieties to remain in conversation.

◑ Finish

The finish is dry and moderately long, with lingering malt sweetness and a faint herbal dryness from the hops. Aftertaste remains crisp and inviting, without any cloying residue.