Lewes Castle

◎ Appearance

Deep mahogany to near-black in color, presenting a dense, opaque character typical of the style. A generous cream-colored head forms on the pour and clings persistently to the glass, leaving fine lacing on the sides. The body is full and viscous, suggesting considerable residual sweetness and roasted malt character.

◌ Aroma

The nose leads with warm roasted malt and dark caramel notes, underscored by subtle liquorice and toasted nut characters. Dark sugars contribute a honeyed sweetness beneath the roast, while the overall impression is welcoming and complex without aggressive hop presence. A faint earthiness suggests the Fuggle and Progress additions even in the nose.

◐ Taste

The palate opens with full, lush malt sweetness accented by coffee and burnt sugar notes, creating a rounded, substantial mouthfeel. Liquorice threads through the mid-palate, adding herbal complexity, while the roasted character builds gently. The finish turns bittersweet and dry, with Fuggle and Progress hops introducing an earthy, slightly peppery edge that cuts through the residual sweetness without overwhelming it.

◑ Finish

The finish is medium in length, with the initial sweetness giving way to a dry, earthy bitterness that persists cleanly on the palate. The aftertaste echoes coffee and malt with a subtle herbaceous note from the hops.