By now you would think that I would have learned to avoid beers that come in clear bottles. With the possible exception of a couple of Sam Smith’s products, any brewer that cares so little about his beer to send it naked into the world is really not worth my time. It may be pretty, but it is imprudent. So tossing all reason aside I purchased the 12 oz clear bottle of the Old Speckled Hen. It poured a color that was expected given the packaging. The head was small and white. The sour macro scent that assaulted my nose gave indication to my mistake. The flavor was surprisingly complex. Not good, but complex. The front was sour and vaguely malty. Then a short wave of an almost butterscotch flavor came. It was followed by a rather unpleasant bitter aftertaste. In all a waste of time. It has also been my experience that the draft is completely lacking in flavor.

[Cask at Cockney Pub, Århus] A brown beer with a small head. The aroma is slight of malt. The flavor is smooth, sweet malty with notes of caramel and wood before a dry finish takes over.

The appearance is average, maybe a tiny bit above. It keeps its carbonation nicely. Smell: yuck, skunky Taste: ugh, I want to pour this out. Very dry and gin tasting. Mouthfeel: not terrible... I'd rather keep it in my mouth than swallow it. For me, this beer is almost undrinkable. I'm surprised at its higher ratings.