By Jeff Evans

Nose

Smooth and fruity, with gentle pear drop notes, light chocolate and a malty softness. There's also a little tart citrus and a winey note.

Palate

A mellow beer with a rich malty base and pineapple and pear drop fruitiness. Sweetness is nicely offset by a slighty vinous bite. Rather light bodied for its strength.

Finish

Well balanced. Malty, fruity sweetness persists, with just enough bitterness hanging on to prevent it from cloying. The malts are dark but subtle, with no harsh roasted character.

Comment

A classic strong Midlands mild that has not been bottled for a few years. This sample was from a new trial bottling.