XS Old Crustacean
This is the 2006 XS Pours hazy chestnut brown with very little carbonation. Head is a thick off white mass that leaves no lacing. Smell is a strong bready malt base being overwhelmed by aggressive citrus hop. Warming alcohol is definitely present, but not overwhelming considering the strength of the malt and hops. Taste is very robust. This thing is huge. The bready caramel malt is up front with pleasant light fruit notes. However, the generous malt doesn't add much sweetness to this bitter brew. Then the monstrous hop onslaught takes over with very green leafyness and plenty of citrus hop. Finish is woody and dry with continuing leafy features. I feel like I just ate raw hops. Mouthfeel is medium full. Chewy, with generous hop oil slickness. This beer is a monster. I would like to taste this after it has been cellared for a few years so it has a chance to mature. This may the most leafy beer I have ever had. Although my tongue is already numb, I can see the potential greatness in this brew. At this time however, this beer to green and aggressive to get the top scores it will get when it has a chance to mellow.