Honey Habanero Spicy Ale

According to the copy on the snazzy 473mL cans of Frank Brewing Co.’s Honey Habanero Spicy Ale, this brew was created in homage to the brewer’s grandad’s zeal for his wife’s honey habanero marmalade. Low-test at just 4.8%, the beer is crystal clear and golden, with a thin disc of eggshell head.

To my sniffer, honey sweetness is the big contributor to the aroma of this little effort from Tecumseh, Ontario. Interesting, the spicy pepper is used sparingly, and only becomes evident on the finish after a couple of sips. Otherwise, the flavour is mild and sweet, with mellifluous notes on top of an otherwise mild and balanced blonde ale.

I’m conflicted when it comes to reviewing this ale—typically with spicy beers I fear over-emphasis of heat elements, but with this one, I’d have liked just a whisper more potency. As well, I always like to know where a beer’s honey (and peppers) are sourced. That info would have been nice.

Rating: 7.0 out of 10.