Additional notes 10/10/23 (pictured)

Close to 20 years ago that I made the notes below. Gulp. This was $3.99 from Belmont Beverage, State St., Fort Wayne, IN.

Pour is not as clear as 20 years ago, and although the mid-copper colored pour is itself quite attractive, there is no clarity. A light chill-haze persists. It’s still a sweet malt bomb, and although my tastes have changed over the years I’d still say this is a decent example of a much maligned style. Definitely has some Czech lager influence but is sweeter than

Age of this bottle unknown as the date is obscured, but the modern is a more modern version of the one from 20 years ago.

Original notes 06/07/04

$2.19 Arbor Place Beverage, Douglasville, GA.

I must admit I was getting ready to be disappointed by this, thinking that it would be simply a poor quality import designed to con the locals by making them think it was something exotic. In the end I was very happily surprised.

Poured a beautiful deep red/brown color with some decent head and retention and some good lacing. Delightfully malty aroma that is replicated in the taste. The sweet malts really come through strong with no hint of bitterness. One of the “maltiest” beers I’ve had in a long time. It finished really creamy and left me wanting more. The caramel highlights were – well – a highlight!

I expect this will be too sweet for many people, but I thought it was an excellent example of the style that I will visit again. Not necessarily one I would want to drink all the time, but a nice brew. Pleasantly surprised.