22oz bomber (#7 of 10) thanks to BigLove as part of Blue Max BIF (#48). Mid-orange pour with some lovely lace and a small but well formed head.

Aroma and tastes are one and the same. Layers and layers of West Coast resinous, pine hops, loads of Christmas based orange citrus fruits (satsumas and tangerines) and lots of alcohol sweetness.

I was very suprised at the level of sweetness in this beer. Coupled with the rather significant orange and alcohol content this drank a bit like a beery Cointreau – seriously! Despite the potentially unappetizing sound of that combo, the drinkability is off the charts (a 5+). Oily mouthfeel without going too far and a satisfying bite.

Alcohol is quite pronounced – be careful.

All in all a very significant and stand-out beer. You’ve really got to try this, and Stone proves again that they can produce some astonishing beers.