Monday, February 18, 2008

#165 Sleemans - Cream Ale



According the Sleeman's web site;
In 1988, Sleeman Cream Ale went on sale in Ontario for the first time in over half a century. Brewed according to the recipe found on page 64 of George Sleeman's personal notebook, and sold in distinctive clear glass bottles reminiscent of those used by earlier Sleeman brewers, the refreshing ale soon earned a loyal following among the growing circle of premium beer fans.
It would be fun to use old recipes to make beer and see how they turned out.

The smell of his beer is earthy and metallic, reminiscent of a lager. There is a hint of hops in the aroma, but only a hint. The color is straw and crystal clear. There are bubbles coming up from the bottom of the glass and the head is keeping the beer covered. From a glance this looks like any commercial beer.

The taste deviates some from the commercial beer appearance. There is a some malt sweetness in the start, followed by a taste only described as cream ale. The smooth creamy taste and mouthfeel are subtle. The finish is bitter, but the taste doesn't linger.

This is an ok beer. I like the creamy tastes, but I would like some more substance to the beer. I won't be hurrying to order a cream ale at the bar, but I might recommend one to a friend that prefers commercial beer.

1 comment:

Stephanie said...

I bet this is much better on draft or cask. I really liked the cream ales that I have had in Scotland.