Juniper Black Ale (JBA) - Beer Camp #16
Offering from the 2011 beer camp mix pack. Poured into a standard pint glass. Pours jet black, light brown head, very nice lacing. The darkness of the pour was shocking, especially when I gave the freshly poured brew a good whiff. It gives of a citrus hop aroma that blew me away. The taste, however, is more complex than the aroma, and doesn't really match it, either. Which wasn't a mark-down, because the flavor really is superb and complex. It gives off a boozy, bitter chocolate bite at the front end of each sip. There is certainly a good deal of earthiness (pine mostly) which could be from the hops, from the juniper, or the two in concert. Nice, bitter finish. Resinous coating of chocolatey goodness lasts for a bit. The final flavor is an unclean hoppy bite. Definitely the gem of the solid Beer Camp 12-pack. Wicked variety of flavors here, all married well by the "mild" dark chocolate flavors and bitterness. A little bit of warming allows different flavors to dominate. Just enough of a booze bite as well. Great all around.