Smuttynose Baltic Porter

Smuttynose Baltic Porter (not to be confused with the Smuttynose Robust Porter) is a strong beer (9% alcohol) that comes in convenient four-packs of 355mL bottles. Don't drink a four-pack in one sitting. Just don't. This beautiful dark ale comes from Hampton, New Hampshire and its Smuttynose Brewing Company. It's an obsidian-dark ale with a lush, thick tan head.

SBP has an understated aroma with a roasted malt spine, fleshed out with notes of figs. For flavour, there is a complicated blend of bitter molasses, dark fruit, and tobacco, warmed by every drop of that 9% booze.

When I started my review brew, it was refrigerator cold and already complex, but as I sipped, the flavour gained layers at an interest rate that approached criminal. This is a beer to savour--not one that should be rushed. I paired it with an after dinner bourbon on the rocks and a quarter of NBA basketball, and it left me hella mellow and peaceful. A strong beer that speaks softly. Highly recommended.

Rating: 9.5 out of 10.