It’s American Thanksgiving today and the Christmas season is just around the corner, so it’s probably a good time to reflect on the many things we’re thankful for.
I mean, yeah, I’m thankful for my wife and my son and all my family and friends and the fact that we don’t live in a nightmarish post-apocalyptic dystopia (yet). Obviously. But what I’m really thankful for is the plethora of amazing craft beer now available on seemingly every block in this awesome city of ours. Now that’s something I can raise a glass to!
I’m definitely thankful I was able to get my hands on a bottle of Hoyne Brewing’s annual Gratitude release. Every year around this time, the good folks over there in Victoria express their gratitude in the form of a beer that is truly a labour of love. The bottles are all hand-wrapped and feature a lovely little message proclaiming thanks to everyone from cyclists to “people who see angels and never tell a soul.” Indeed, Gratitude is a big gushy love letter to the world, brimming with heart and soul. With its bold malt character, vanilla, nutmeg and burnt sugar goodness, it’s hard not fall in love with this beer.
This winter warmer will warm your heart, too, and if you’re not careful, you’ll soon be pronouncing your love for everyone and everything. Not that that’s a bad thing. But Gratitude is ridiculously, dangerously smooth considering it clocks in at 9.0% ABV. So heads up, you’ll be passing out I-love-you-mans like they’re going out of style.
Gratitude by Hoyne Brewing (9.0% ABV)
Appearance: Deep ruby brown with brilliant clarity, and a persistent tan coloured head.
Aroma: Roasted malt, dark fruit, caramel, molasses, spice.
Flavour: Rich malt character, caramel, molasses, plum, apricot, vanilla, nutmeg, subtle alcoholic warmth.
Body: Creamy, full-bodied and coating, with a sweet lingering finish.
Pairs with: Roasted turkey, Christmas cookies, ugly sweaters and heartfelt confessions of love and appreciation.
