Scotland is the land of Fat Bastard, highland dancing, and the Loch Ness Monster. It is also widely recognized as the birth place of the modern game of golf. With monsters swimming in their lakes and the frustrations that come with playing a round of golf, it’s no wonder that the Scottish also produce some high quality hooch.
Scotland is most well known for producing Scotch Whisky, a distilled spirit made from malted barley. However, Scotland also has a rich brewing tradition that dates back approximately 5,000 years. Today we explore Oskar Blue’s Old Chub, a modern rendition of a Scotish Ale.
Appearance
Dark cola brown in color, bordering on black. A hint of crimson when held to the light. Only a finger of tan colored head that quickly recedes leaving a thin layer of foam. Lacing was delicate.
Aroma
Plenty of sweet malt aromas: caramel, chocolate chip cookies, and freshly baked bread. A faint nuttiness as well. Hints of peat moss and tobacco divulge the use of smoked malt.
Taste
Malt is the star of the beer with sweet notes of toffee, caramel, and chocolate hitting the palate. Little to no hop presence and the only bitterness that makes an appearance takes the form of burnt toast. The light smokiness and woodiness reminds the drinker of a single malt scotch.
Mouthfeel
Medium to full bodied beer. Creamy texture on the tongue. Carbonation is moderate. Alcohol, at 8% ABV, leaves a slight warming sensation.
Drinkability
There are hop bombs and then there are malt bombs. Old Chub could certainly be considered one of the latter. A delicately balanced and yet complex beer that takes your palate on an entirely different ride than the IPAs that have become the staple of American Craft Beer. Overall grade for Oskar Blues Old Chub: A-
Up next on Tuesday Tasting: Palo Alto Brewing Co. Atlas Double IPA