1554

◎ Appearance

Deep mahogany to dark brown in color, with excellent clarity and a persistent tan head that forms fine lacing around the glass. The carbonation is moderate and well-integrated, creating a stable foam collar that gradually releases.

◌ Aroma

The nose leads with dried dark fruit and subtle licorice notes, reflecting the gruit heritage and licorice root addition. Roasted malt and faint chocolate undertones emerge beneath, with a whisper of herbal complexity that does not dominate. No aggressive hop character; instead, a soft, integrated bouquet invites closer inspection.

◐ Taste

Entry is smooth and well-rounded, with chocolate and toasted grain taking the foreground. Mid-palate develops herbaceous and slightly astringent qualities from the gruit spicing, while the 21 IBU keeps bitterness restrained and balanced. A subtle nuttiness and caramel sweetness persist without cloying, supported by clean lager yeast character despite ale fermentation.

◑ Finish

The finish is notably dry and clean, with chocolate and herbal notes fading into a gentle astringency. Aftertaste is brief to moderate, leaving a refined dryness on the palate rather than lingering sweetness.