New Holland Dragon’s Milk
Found: Grape and Gourmet
Price: Around 6 dollars a bottle
Website: http://newhollandbrew.com
What the company says: A barrel-aged, strong-ale with a soft and rich caramel-malt character intermingled with deep vanilla tones dancing in an oak bath. Unmistakably distinctive and hauntingly remarkable, Dragon’s Milk’s warming complexity pairs well with smoked meats and cheeses, red meat, or a nice cigar.
What I say: The only other brew I’ve had from these guys is there Mad Hatter IPA. A lot of people love that brew but I thought it was just a mediocre IPA. Not that I can brew anything better (well hopefully one day) but it just as good as others I’ve had. This time around it’s their Dragon’s Milk. As you can see above it’s a barrel aged strong ale and I’m happy to say that we have a winner here.
The Look: Very dark brown with light brown highlights. Small almost non existent tan head.
What the nose thought: Wow this is a fantastic smelling beer. Caramel, vanilla, chocolate, smokey, and molasses. Complex and wonderful.
And the tastebuds?: I’m happy to say that the taste is just as good as the smell. It has all the same ingredients as the smell. The vanilla is the winner here with caramel, chocolate, coffee, and that awesome oak taste.
The feel: Nice bit of carbonation. I honestly thought this would be a heavier beer when I poured it but it’s not at all. It’s medium bodied and smooth. Really smooth.
Ending notes: While I didn’t fully write off New Holland after I tried their Mad Hatter, it did take me a while to go to another one of their brews. I’m sorry I waited. This is a different kind of beer. I don’t think I’ve ever had anything quite like it. It’s complex yet tasty as hell. Do not hesitate to give this on a try folks.
Rating: A

Difficult to find in these parts but one of my favorites.
Cheers!
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