Great Divide Brewing Company – Hibernation 2016

Great Divide Brewing Company – Hibernation 2016

English Style Old Ale
Brewed in: Denver, Colorado
2015 BJCP Style: 17B. Old Ale
ABV: 8.7%
Bottle
Bottled on: 11/17/16
Tasting on: 11/5/17
Glass: Stout

Aroma: Overtones of moderate-high caramel, toffee, and chocolate. Undertones of low hop aroma with earthy character. 8.5/10

Appearance: Dark brown with deep copper highlights. Tan head with good retention (especially considering the age and ABV) and fine to large bubbles. 8.5/10

Flavor: Moderate hop bitterness in the beginning. The middle is mostly dry with a considerable malt background, but the balance is still well toward hop bitterness. Moderate hop bitterness continues in the end but fades in the aftertaste along with dark roasted malt and chocolate. 16/20

Mouthfeel: Slightly creamy with a medium body, low-moderate carbonation, no alcohol. 8.5/10

Overall Impression: Surprisingly bitter for a traditionally malty style. The malt adds a richness to the flavor and body but still yields to the hop bitterness. The beer hides the ABV very well. 42/50

Final Score: 84% = C+