Gritty McDuffs Halloween Ale

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

6-pack brought back from the States by Lilihel. Pours a slightly hazy deep amber colour with a big creamy warm cap that creates a thick foam over the brew that sticks by, and to the glass. Hoppy nose with roasted and caramel malts, and hints of spices, nuts and alcohol. This last one is not so much in the mouthfeel, but well-balanced, with mild bitterness over the malts. Pretty good ESB with that North American feel to it (more hop than English ones). Wish there were a bit more spices in the taste, as this is called "Halloween Ale". Great session.

Aroma: 8 | Appearance: 7 | Mouthfeel: 6 | Flavor: 7 | Overall: 8

There is a reason this is the title sponsor of the Maine Brewers Festival. If you have a chance to pick smoe up GRAB IT - it wont last long in the stores. It has a robust full body with a dark amber color and a classic finish. When this comes out, you almost dont mind that summer is almost over.

Aroma: 6 | Appearance: 6 | Mouthfeel: 6 | Flavor: 7 | Overall: 7

Breaking into a discounted Gritty's "dirty dozen," I was a bit skeptical. I saw the halloween ale in the mix... and it was January. Perhaps it hadn't sold too well this year. In any case, not a good omen. Not to mention, Im not a big fan of autumn ales to begin with. But, I wasn't too unhappy with this one. Gritty's seems to have brewed themselves a decent beer here. Though still on the sweet side, I appreciated the "dry" (relatively) finish that the other reviewers have mentioned. That said, this beer was nothing remarkable. A bit above average, but middle of the road as far as Maine brewers go. For the price, I might sample it again, but I wouldn't go too far out of my way.

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

Pours a dark red with a finger of foam. Aroma is sweet and hoppy, caramel as well as nutty/earthy hops. Flavor starts off with caramel and nutty bready flavors. Turns mildly bitter with earthy, piney hop presence. Finishes dry, yet refreshing. Makes for a very nice session ale.

Aroma: 6 | Appearance: 6 | Mouthfeel: 6 | Flavor: 7 | Overall: 6

Deep amber brown/red color with little head. sweet well balanced sroma leaning towards malty. Sweet hoppy flavor with fuity and malty notes. Medium bodied and dry.