Old Speckled Hen

◎ Appearance

Auburn to copper in colour, displaying the warm, inviting hue characteristic of a well-kilned crystal malt foundation. The beer shows good clarity with a dense, persistent head that clings to the glass, demonstrating solid foam stability and carbonation presence.

◌ Aroma

The nose leads with toffee and caramel sweetness, notes that rise directly from the high crystal malt content. Behind this sits an ester-driven fruitiness—banana and pear drop—from the yeast work, kept fresh and lively. Herbal hop character emerges in the background with a whisper of orange zest.

◐ Taste

Entry is malty and full-bodied, with the sweetness of toffee and caramel settling across the palate. Midway through, the herbal hop bitterness rises to provide counterbalance, preventing the beer from becoming cloying. The finish dries considerably, with residual bitterness holding the malt-driven sweetness in restraint.

◑ Finish

The finish is notably dry, with lingering bitterness that extends the drinking experience without harshness. A warming quality builds in the throat, the hallmark of genuine ale strength at 4.8%.