I just tried this beer; having never heard of the brewer or beer before.
REALLY, REALLY like it and great to see a beer that is made completely as a balanced and subtle English beer but one that's willing to embrace an interesting ingredient.
It's brewed of Maple which strongly hints of some sort of new-world brewing influence but it's a FIRMLY English ale. No over the top ABV or extreme flavors.
An incredible long-lasting head (maybe a bit over-carbonated) balanced malty and hoppiness on the nose, a golden to copper flavor, perfectly balanced maltiness and hoppiness in the flavor. Despite the high carbonation the mouthfeel is medium full and smooth (think German Helles or Oktobefest/Marzen). Fermentation character of old Peculiar but with the intensity cut in half. The maple is really, really well hidden and I would never ever guess that it has maple in it if it weren't listed clearly on the label.
It is really a fantastic beer that I would love to drink all the time.
I think I'm heading back to Morrisons tomorrow before I come home to bring back a few more bottles. This is a great beer, I'm so impressed and know where I'm going first thing if I ever have a reason to go to Manchester.
Adam
