The Cortina

◎ Appearance

The Cortina presents a deep amber to light brown hue, clear and bright with good translucency. A modest head forms and settles into fine lacing that clings to the glass with visible retention. Carbonation is gentle and steady, appropriate to the ale's restrained 3.8% ABV.

◌ Aroma

The nose leads with soft, rounded caramel malt sweetness, supported by toasted grain undertones and subtle nuttiness. There is no aggressive hop character; instead, the bitterroot herbs sit quietly in the background, allowing the malt to dominate. A gentle bready note rounds out the aromatic profile without any sharp edges.

◐ Taste

Entry is smooth and malty, with caramel and toffee notes coating the palate evenly. Mid-palate introduces a gentle toasted quality alongside hints of hazelnut, while a restrained bitterness (24 IBU) arrives without harshness, providing structure without dominating. The overall impression is of balance and refinement rather than intensity.

◑ Finish

The finish is dry and clean, with lingering malt sweetness fading gracefully to a mild bitter edge. The aftertaste remains smooth and composed, leaving a warm, slightly grainy memory on the palate.