Started in 1867, Leinenkugel Brewing has deep roots in the upper Midwest. Ask most folks in the area, and I am sure they have heard of them, and especially their most popular (I would say) Sunset Wheat. Based out of Wisconsin, they are still relatively small, but since 1988 have been owned by SABMiller giving them a little bit more exposure. Lately they have been releasing smaller batch, higher alcohol brews, as is the case with this, their Big Eddy Wee Heavy Scotch Ale.
Malts are the name of the game with this beer, and also style. Using a blend of eight different malts, this beer reaches malt levels that you are not normally going to find in a good beer. Once poured into your glass, the usual malt smells hit your nose. The appearance of the brew is a nice dark amber/ruby coloration, with a little head which dissipates quicker than I expected. Once the beer hits your mouth, the malt flavors show up once again. Lots and lots of malts flavor, which with using eight different types you would think it would be very complex. But in actuality, it is not. It balances nicely with a sweet, although heavy mouth feel, and finishes with a medicinal type taste. This would be attributed to the higher than normal 9.5% ABV. It is a good tasting beer, but heavy enough that you are not going to drink that many.
This is a quality beer from Leinenkugel, which was a little unexpected. Not a phenomenal beer mind you, but still very respectable. I really enjoyed this one, and plan on exploring this brand a little further. If you are into malts, I would definitely suggest this one for your palate. Check out their site here.
Cheers!
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