Snow Hands (draft)-Haw River Farmhouse Ales
A winter answer, a Belgian-style strong/dark/quad ale, to their summer Sun Hands, a Belgian-style tripel.
Pour was a dark brown with a copious, foamy, mocha head that had to be tilted-off several times so the full half pint ($4) serving could be realized. Nose of dark dried fruits and spice. Tastes of liquid raisins, dates and figs with a moderately sweet, yet spicy and rummy finish. Label states maple syrup and foraged spicebush berries are added. I didn't get the maple but did perceive the expected dark candi sugar given the style. The spiciness (nutmeg, allspice, clove) surprised me a bit as I was expecting the "berries" to be sweet but found this instead with a bit of research:
https://www.backyardforager.com/spic...ndera-benzoin/ with the following quote:
"I’ve heard people describe it as tasting like a mix of allspice and pepper, but to me, the flavor defies description. It’s spicy, complex, dark, has a little heat, and there’s something floral in there, too."
I'll guess 20 IBUs based on the style with the ABV at 10%, about as expected. This would make an interesting liquid dessert or a companion with a caramel/mild chocolate baked goody. Might also make a fine pairing with a pork roast, ribs or a beef brisket.
I liked my last Haw River beverage better (Torn Paper Leaves), but the 500 ml bottle of this would make a nice drop at the advertised price of $7.49 or $7.99.