Smithwick's Ale
I had tried this once and vaguely remember liking it, but it always seems overpriced for a more "macro" kind of beer. When I saw a single, I thought I'd give it a go. Pours a thick-headed, big, and bubbly head with a strange, muted, translucent brownish hue for a red ale. Left a creamy dolop at the bottom of the glass. Smells mild, lightly grassy, and of sweet malt. Taste is balanced and outstanding for a macro, with a bit of a hop bite but only in balance with the full malt, taste smooth, sweetish, tea like, and definitely UK style. Better than newcastle for sure, but it has a rather unique taste. It doesn't seem like it would be difficult to imitate and beat this, but I've as of yet had a craft brewery that tried and suceeds in this style. I'd return here, and know it would win at a party. Nothing I'll buy regularly, but I'd be excited if I saw it on tap.