Firstly I’m unconvinced that this is an Old Ale. If you read the label carefully, and consult the brewery web site, it classifies it as an “Olde English Ale” which is significantly different to an Old Ale. This is really an ESB or a Winter Warmer.

Great noisy pour, with a deep red/brown body, a delicious thick head, some lacing and a deep malty aroma. The mouthfeel is full and satisfying. The malts are the bulk of the taste with plenty of sweetness making up the initial tastes. Then comes the balance with a hop finish that is short and perfectly rounds the beer.

A little spice too (maybe some corriander?) and you have a super beer for winter’s in by the fire. Lots of body and depth and he alcohol is very, very well hidden.