TAp at source. Big & black. Lots of spices on the nose. Its almost an alarming olfactory. Taste is bready with some holiday spices. However, the spice is not over the top like so many holiday brews that simply get right in yer face. Even tho I am not a fan of Christmas beers, this stuff is not too bad. Actually this stuff is actually kind of acceptable. Probably one of the better holiday brews I've experienced, thank you. Hey, maybe I'm getting a little of that Scottish ale in there on the finish? Just asking.