Cricket Hill Paymaster's Porter Ale

Aroma: 8 | Appearance: 8 | Mouthfeel: 9 | Flavor: 8 | Overall: 8

Rich, smoky aroma has notes of licorice and molasses plus a waxy hint like one of those old fat crayons. It pours a deep, warm sable with a fairly thick, if not too persistent, light tan head. Flavor is what I expect from a good porter: malty, smoky, with notes of molasses and burnt wood and hints of licorice and unsweet chocolate. Thick, rich texture has plenty of fizz and leaves a smoky, tingly finish. If you love porters, look for it.

Aroma: 8 | Appearance: 7 | Mouthfeel: 7 | Flavor: 8 | Overall: 7

I originally had this when it was draught only and it was an outstanding beer then. The bottled version is a tad less exciting, but is still very good. Lots of roasted goodness in this one with chocolate and coffee in the aroma and flavour. Creamy.

Aroma: 5 | Appearance: 9 | Mouthfeel: 5 | Flavor: 8 | Overall: 7

Pours dark brown with a small tan head that fizzled away quickly. Nice cocoa aroma with hints of nuts and coffee, and some dark fruit. Body was thinner than I expected it to bed. Not very carbonated so it went down more like water than beer. The flavor was good, so it's kind of a shame about the body. I'm curious about this brewery as it's the first time I heard of them and they're in NJ. I'd be willing to try out some more of their offerings.