Japanese Classic Ale

2004 draught @ Redbones. A very colorful, rusty-gold body, quite effervescent, with a smattering of white head. Strong, vigorous aroma of cedar, oily, and wet. Some light hops in the background provide some citrus and pine resin, but the cedar is front seat. Flavor starts out tart, acidic, dry but with a semi-sweet sourness from the wood. Light, dry toffee notes mix with the hops. Some yeast adds complexity and on the end there is a bit of fruit flavors (mango, papaya, guava juice). I like the sourness, the acidity seems to be too much though. The cedar aging just seems to be a bit overdone, but it certainly is a unique beer. Medium body, oily, resinous mouthfeel, slightly hazy.

Very hazy amber coloured body with orange tints and a dense tan head that fades fast. Aroma of cedar, cigars, peaches, fresh light hops and a good maltiness. Medium-bodied; Spicey cedar flavour with a good maltiness throughout. Aftertaste shows fresh hops with the whole cedar flavour. Overall, a wierd one that makes you think throughout the beer! I sampled this 33 cL bottle purchased at Whole Fodos in Vienna, Virginia on 07-December-2004.

Mmmm...nice, spicy cedar aroma reminds me of a medicine box or new cabinets. The beer is fairly hoppy, but the cedar dominates the flavor, lending a tannic, lasting quality that borders on sourness, bringing to mind something along the lines of a Saison. Flowery hops try to introduce themselves at the end of the sip. One of the most unusual offerings you’ll find at your favorite beer store.