Hitachino Nest Celebration Ale
A most interesting beer. The 9% ABV is well hidden until that first sip...can't really taste it, but you certainly feel the warmth. Pours a bright ruby brown color, heavily carbonated...so there's a well retaining head and lots of bubbles. The nose is intense, with notes of candy sugar, yeast, coriander and maple syrup. Heavily carbonated and has a sharp feel on the palate, but that seems to fit with the amount of complexity and alcohol in this brew. Somewhat sweet flavor yields to a biting hop character before revealing all the spices: clove, vanilla, cinnamon. Heavily spiced, but the carbonation and good amount of alcohol warmth keep them in check. Still can't taste that alcohol, but you know it's there! A very interesting brew, worth seeking out.