On the Sixth Day of Beermas…..
Name: Gouden Carolus Noel
Brewed By: Brewery Het Anker
Style: Winter Ale
ABV: 10.5%
Poured a dark brown to black that glowed with crimson highlights when held to the light, pour raised a short off white head that fell to just a thin layer across the surface.
Smells slightly sweet, spices are noticeable, picking up some licorice and dark fruits.
Complex flavor, hints of dark chocolate, prunes, licorice stands out as the prominent flavor. The initial flavor is sweet but dries out at the end of the sip and leaves you with a spice aftertaste, reminds me of mint. The flavors are so strong that the alcohol is hidden almost completely and mostly reveals itself as a warming sensation after the swallow.
Overall an interesting beer, I’m not sure personally that I’m a fan, the black licorice flavor is quite strong and I enjoy that aspect of the beer but the finish reminds me of mint leaves and I’m not a fan of that. The bottle calls out the fact that the beer pairs well with game, meat stews and aged cheeses, I may have enjoyed this beer more with a proper pairing.
Cheers!
Chaddah
12 days of Beermas
Day 1: Harpoon Brewing Co. Winter Warmer
Day 2: Gritty McDuff’s Brewing Company, Christmas Ale
Day 3: Schneider Weisse, Aventinus Eisbock
Day 4: Rogue Ales, Santa’s Private Reserve Ale
Day 5: Shipyard Brewing Company, Mint Chocolate Stout
Day 6: Gouden Carolus, Noel
Day 7: De Struise Brouwers, Tjseeses
Day 8: Friars Brewhouse, Whoopie Pie Porter
Day 10: Ridgeway Brewing, Criminally Bad Elf