This was the new, specially brewed 8% brew that Spike was kind enough to give me a preview of before it’s appearance in September 2004, not the previously reviewed smaller beer.

This brew reminds me of a typical English bitter, it has the classic red/brown clarity, an upfront hoppy strong character and a solid, well formed and well retained head that is a delight. The only difference was the amazing Grapefruit aroma that was incredibly strong. In fact it was so strong it was on the verge of being slightly off-putting.

Outside of the aroma there is a real “bite” to the hops with this beer and it was a delicious change of pace. Not all will enjoy this citrus “tanginess”, and it is a somewhat acquired taste, but I would encourage visiting this beer – you might like it.