Amber, clear with a low, creamy head. Surprisingly light body. Powerful, with several layers of malt aromas. Bread crust, caramel, sweet dried fruit, pickled orange peel, citrus, and barrel. Well-hidden alcohol, soft and smooth. Bitterness is subtle but well-defined, with a traditional British herbal and earthy character. Very good.

Bottle at home from Waitrose with money off. Result! It's Christmas Eve and this brings an end to my homemade advent calendar. And it's a great one to end on, before the frontal assault of claret and vintage port tomorrow on the Big Day. It's been a good year for beer and life in general and watching the family and dogs lolling in the lounge round the fire gives me a certain glow. Anyway, this is an exceptional beer and very well balanced. Rich and sweet malts, with bitter hops and a welcome woodiness that I love.