Wychwood Fiddler's Elbow Ale

Tonight I sampled another ale from Wychwood in Witney, Oxfordshire, England. This one's called Fiddler's Elbow, and it's in the style of an English Bitter. It poured a deep gold color, with a big creamy long-lasting head that left plenty of lacing. The aroma is malt and flowery hops. Carbonation was low, and the flavor was mostly sweet malt and more floral hops. The finish was mildly bitter. I really like these English Bitters, and this was no exception. Wychwood is getting to be one of my preferred English brewers. I'll be on the lookout for more of their varieties.

Rogue Brutal Bitter from Oregon Brewing

Tonight I enjoyed my first beer in a few days, and I picked one from one of my favorite brewers. Rogue Brutal Bitter is definitely a very creative version of an English Bitter. It poured an orange-amber color with a head the color of orange sherbet. This ale is much hoppier, and more bitter than the standard Bitter. John Maier, the Brewmaster at Rogue, likes his hops, and there's a healthy dose of citrusy West coast hops in this beer. While it's hoppier than a traditional bitter, it is not as hoppy or as strong as an IPA. Oregon Brewing can do no wrong as far as I'm concerned, and this beer just strengthens that conviction.

The Tanner's Jack, by Morland

I was a little concerned about this beer, since it's in a clear bottle. I was afraid it might be skunked if it hadn't been stored properly. My fears were unfounded, and the beer was fine. The Tanner's Jack is brewed by Morland in England. The word "Jack" in this case refers to a leather tankard which was a popular container for drinking beer from in the 18th century. This beer is an English Bitter. It's a smooth malty, slightly fruity ale with a modest bitter finish. This would be a good session beer. It poured a light-colored amber with a head that was just larger than non-existent. I'd like to try this from a cask, on draft, because I imagine it would be even better.