My Top 5 Ales of 2012

In 2012 I've tried probably in the order of 130-150 ales, here are my top 5, they are not necessarily new or special, just ones that I've tried and enjoyed in 2012 which I've picked out as my favourites over the year. So in no particular order...

Blue Monkey Infinity, 4.6%

The Infinity is an American Pale Ale style using Citra hops, which are excellent throughout. There is a good frothy head and an aromatic citrus aroma, bitter citrus flavours to start followed by a sweeter juicy tropicalness with a lingering mild bitter finish. A triumph.

Harviestoun Ola Dubh 12, 8.0%

Ale aged in Casks which used to hold 12 year old Highland Park whisky from the Harviestoun brewery in Scotland. Pours a very very dark brown with a light head which dissipates fast, Oak and roast aromas with a tinge of whisky. On the palate roasted malts and a little chocolate and then the whisky which starts light develops to leave a dark whisky ale taste. Excellent.

Bath Ale Barnsey, 4.5%

One of the ales available at the ‘Look Mum No Hands’ cycle cafe (or at least it was when the tour de france was on), I spent a whole stage drinking this and it is lovely. A nice fruity dark ale with a chocolatey edge, cracking.

Kelpie Seaweed Ale, 4.4%

This ale from William Bros Brewing Co, has its roots in coastal Scottish alehouses where the malted barley was grown in fields fertilised by seaweed, this essence has been recreated in this ale by the use of seaweed in the mash tun. The ale itself is a dark brown colour with aromas of toffee and nut with an unmistakeable hint of a seaside smell, on the palate it is robust and malty with a roasted aftertaste with again a hint of the sea. This ale is not going to be for everyone but I really enjoyed it.

Clearwater Devon Dympsy, 4.0%

Formerly known as “Cavalier” this ale is from the Clearwater brewery in Torrington, Devon, a small brewery with a succinct range of ales/pubs around the Exmoor area. The ale itself is excellent, dark chestnut in colour with a nutty smooth taste which builds into a citrus finish. It’s very drinkable and I need to get some more of this asap.