Name: Mister Harwood
Brewer: Wheatland Spring Farm + Brewery (United States)
Style: English Porter
ABV: 5.9%
Review Year: 2022
Crafted in Virginia, Mister Harwood is Wheatland Spring Farm + Brewery’s homage to the timeless English Porter.
Backlog review from January 2022.
STYLE GUIDELINES
This beer is being evaluated as an English Porter (13C) in the context of the 2021 Beer Style Guidelines of the Beer Judge Certification Program (BJCP). The most current version can be found on the BJCP website.
TASTING NOTES
Aroma
The aroma reveals a pleasing combination of moderate toasted bread and a hint of dark roast coffee. Subtle notes of chocolate and nuts add depth, while a delicate touch of earthiness and lychees contributes an intriguing twist.
Appearance
Mister Harwood presents itself as a clear deep brown brew with a reddish hue. Topping the beer is a thick brown head, displaying commendable retention.
Flavor
The flavor profile showcases a prominently toasty and biscuity malt character, delivering a rich and satisfying foundation. Highlights of coffee and dark chocolate complement the malt backbone, offering a delightful complexity. A subtle earthy flavor adds a layer of depth, while a medium bitterness balances the beer. There is very low to no sweetness, resulting in a dry finish. A subtle presence of lychees adds a touch of fruity sweetness, which is still appropriate for the style, harmonizing with the other flavors. The finish is brief, leaving behind soft notes of lychees and cacao nibs.
Mouthfeel
Medium-bodied; moderate carbonation. These attributes are well-suited to the style, providing a smooth and pleasant mouthfeel.
THE VERDICT
Mister Harwood is an excellent interpretation of an English Porter, exemplifying its characteristic bitterness and roasty qualities without overwhelming the palate. The beer is well-crafted, showcasing a mastery of the brewery. This robust yet inviting brew is sure to leave a memorable mark on the palate.
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Wheatland Spring Farm + Brewery
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