Phillips Brewing Company Crooked Tooth Pumpkin Ale (2016) Spice / Herb / Vegetable at 5% ABV (C$6.11 at Willow Park Wine & Spirits, 650 ml, best before 20-Feb-2017, acquired 13-Oct-2016, reviewed 13-Oct-2016)
Appearance: clear pale amber with two fingers of rocky ivory head, excellent retention and moderate lacing. (4/5) Aroma: vegetal pumpkin and spices, light sweet malt, faint grassy and earthy hops. (7/10) Taste: moderate sweet, mild bitter, light tart. (7/10) Medium body, moderate carbonation, short duration finish. (3/5)
Well, I said last year that I was slightly out on a limb when I rated it, and upon sober reflection, I think that was right. That’s not to say I’ve given up completely on it, though, and I still think it’s worth a try. I still think the mildness of the pumpkin and spice flavours feels both balanced and deliberate, like a half strength pumpkin pie, while the grassy, earthy hops keeps it smelling and tasting like beer. (14/20)
7/10 #ryansbooze ryansbooze.com
