McMullen Hertford Castle

◎ Appearance

A bright golden hue with excellent clarity and a pale straw-colored head that forms readily and clings persistently to the glass walls. The carbonation is gentle, creating fine bubbles that rise steadily without aggressive fizz. The overall presentation is clean and inviting, with good head retention throughout the session.

◌ Aroma

The nose opens with a prominent creamy maltiness underscored by subtle raisin and dark fruit notes. Whole-leaf aroma hops introduce a distinctive floral character—neither perfumed nor thin, but grounded and naturally herbal. The Suffolk malted barley and the brewery's own spring water combine to create an aromatic profile that is inviting rather than aggressive.

◐ Taste

Entry is smooth and full-bodied, with the creamy maltiness establishing a solid foundation. The mid-palate shifts toward a pronounced but well-integrated floral bitterness that builds steadily without harsh edges. At 40 IBU, the bitterness is assertive yet balanced against the underlying sweetness and dark fruit character, creating complexity rather than one-dimensional hop assault.

◑ Finish

The finish is dry and lingering, with bitterness fading gradually into a clean, slightly crisp aftertaste. The floral and hoppy character persists without becoming cloying, leaving the palate refreshed and ready for another sip.