Different presentation than the BA db picture for the 2009 version (and perhaps even before that), $1.79 for the single from Total Wine, Perimeter, Atlanta, GA, USA.
Pour is a rather murky, dark orange affair with a well formed, tight head that is somewhat small. Doesn’t seem very lively. Looks a little ordinary. Lace and (and especially) retention are well below average. Disappointed with the lack of clarity and brightness to the beer.
Nose gives up some dryish smelling malts. A little powdery on the aroma.
More dry character in the taste with some hop bitterness. Lacks the malt depth that I’m looking for in the style. Has some peppery notes which seem out of place and in general the lacks any kind of clean edge. A little musty, the beer seems old or tired in some way. Bad characteristics for an O’fest, which, IMO, needs clarity and life – this has neither.
A little boring even if not bad per se. Lacks serious malt character and is a bit dull. I need a fresh, vibrant beer for the style and this simply does not provide it. Pass.