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Buyer's Guide for Beer Lovers

Stouts and Porters

Twins of the Beer World

Strong Ale

Strong ales are sometimes referred to as old ales, stock ales or winter warmers. These beers are higher alcohol versions (typically between 5.5-7 percent ABV) of pale ales, though not as robust or alcoholic as barley wines. Usually a deep amber color, these brews generally have a sweet malty palate and a degree of fruitiness. If bottle conditioned, strong ales can improve for several years, in some cases eventually obtaining sherry-like notes.

Interpreting the 100-point Scale

Consumers can translate the point score to the following quality bands:

Point Range Quality Band
96-100 points Platinum
90-95 points Gold
85-90 points Silver
80-84 points Bronze
Less than 80 Not Recommended
Legend
  • = Brewpub
  • ABV = Alcohol by volume
  • Date denotes the date on which the beer was tasted

92 Imperial Porter, Rogue Ales (OR) 2008. 8.2% ABV (1/09)
Brown black color with a rocky reddish tan head. Dark chocolate, roasted nut, creamy and melon aromas follow through on rich, supple entry to a dryish medium-full body with delicious dark nut toast notes and a long, tart, kumquat, cocoa and pepper fade with vibrant astringency. A delicious and food friendly porter to serve with charred steaks.

89 Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale, Alltech Lexington Brewing (KY). 8.19% ABV (1/10)
Deep golden amber color with a lacy head. Fresh buttery graham cracker piecrust and caramel soufflé aromas follow through on a soft, frothy entry to a off-dry medium-full body with creamy vanilla custard and delicate spice notes. Finishes with a citrus seltzer and praline fade.

87 Strong Ale, Theresianer (Italy). 8.5% ABV (1/10)
Rich chocolate-covered fig, flowerbed and clay aromas follow through on a round, satiny entry to a fruit-yet-dry medium-full body with dried apple and citrus marmalade on rye toast notes. Finishes with a long, nutty toast fade.

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