Here come the praises.

​

Ten Penny Reserve is one of the finest beers I have ever tasted.  That must make me a connoisseur.  This beer is dangerously delicious.  With a 9.1% ABV, this deep, dark, malty ale can sneak up on you.  And once you’ve had one, you’re going to want two or three. (Or four!)

​

What is a Scotch Ale?

 

Let’s talk about what a scotch ale is for a moment.
Scotch ales originated in Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, somewhere in the 1800s.  They are sometimes referred to as “Wee Heavy,” which should not be confused with Scottish ales.  Scotch ales carry a higher ABV ranging somewhere between 6% -10%, whereas the Scottish ales are 5% and lower.

Generally speaking, Scotch Ales go through a longer boil in the kettle, allowing the wort to caramelize. This process results in a dark brown, full-bodied ale, bursting with flavor and a higher alcohol content. Though the intense caramel flavors from the long boil tend to dominate over noticeable bitterness, sometimes you may experience a slight bitterness.

 

Sniff & Sip

​

When it comes to East Hartford Brewing Group’s Scotch ale, bitterness is not a problem.  Therefore, allow me to describe what I experienced during my Sniff & Sip.

When drawing in the scent of this ale, you get the malt.  A sweet caramel aroma makes your mouth water.  You might even think of cola but more profound and robust while taking it in.  The first sip was glorious!   I mean that truly.  I had three more cans in the refrigerator, and I was trying to think of a way to hide them from my wife.  The flavor isn’t a Guinness.  There are some notes of toffee but without the dryness of Guinness.  A refreshing caramel, roasted grain flavor that is heaven to the “beer connoisseur.”  I cannot say enough about how good this beer is, yet I cannot find the right words to describe it.  My first sip left me with my jaw on the ground and speechless.  It is honestly that good.

​

Overall Rating

​

Hat’s off to you East Hartford Brewing Group.  I am not worthy.  You have created an ale that my dearly departed, saintly Irish mother would have loved.  Please keep making this brew because I will keep buying.  I have to give Ten Penny Reserve 5 mugs.  Without a doubt in my mind, this beer deserves it.  Well done.

​

Name:

Brewer:

Style:

ABV: 

IBU:

Rating:

Ratings: