Palo Santo Marron

Beer: Palo Santo Marron
Brewery: Dogfish Head, Milton, Delware
ABV: 12%
Style: Brown Ale
Sample Medium: Bottle
Size: 12 oz

Impression: Its a bit unnecessary to state this given that Dogfish Head concocted this brew, but from the first sniff I realized I was in for a unique experience. The aroma reminds me of a homebrew combined with hints of a mild bourbon. This piqued my curiosity, only to further arouse it as the deep black color gave way to a roasted caramel hued head that quickly receded. Waxing bold, a large first sip engulfed my palate and almost buckled my senses. Lurking within this black broth lies a complex giant that initially obfuscated my palate. Strong malty notes are pervasive and almost overshadow softer caramel accents. Somewhere in there I also detect a dark cherry or maybe currant flavor. The finish yields a sustained malt base that primes you for the woody flavor resulting from the cask conditioning in Palo Santo barrels. At the tail end of this marathon finish the high alcohol content makes its appearance. Upon exhaling, it is synonymous with the feeling of breathing out a fine cognac.

Overall this is a well crafted beverage. However, I won't put it in my normal rotation for a few reasons. The extremely malty finish is too syrupy and leaves my palate bogged down. I don't want to rush right back for another sip and almost have to will myself to do so. In my opinion the best part of an ale is the refreshing and revitalizing experience that keeps you coming back for that next sip. It shouldn't be me vs. brew. Then there is the price. I understand all that went into making this but, at $16 / 4 pack I am discouraged. Don't get me wrong this is a good beer with some great components but, I think it is an experience best enjoyed once a year...like fruit cake.

Buzzsaw

Beer: Buzzsaw Brown Seasonal Ale
Brewery: Deschutes Brewery, Bend, Oregon
ABV: 4.8%
Style: Brown Ale
Sample Medium: Glass
Size: 12 oz


Impression: The beautiful brown complexion that Deschutes references as chestnut, and a thick, lush, foamy head make this beer quite a sight to behold. However beside the elegant presentation, this beer is really light and finishes all too quickly. While I think this beer is fine overall it is also easily forgetable. There is a minimal note of carmel and a hint of sweetness but this isn't what I consider one of Deschutes finer beers. I don't mean to sound overly down on this brew, you could certainly thow a few back without a problem, but if I am going for a light brew from Deschutes I prefer Cascade Ale.