While we’re on the topic of Heretic Brewing Company, a neat little Californian brewer, I thought I’d dig into the archives to remember a delicious beer drunk during the obligatory wetting of the head at the birth of a mate’s first born. There may be a more appropriately named beer for such an occasion, but what’s in a name? It’s all about the liquid!!!

Aroma 7/10

Appearance 4/5

Taste 8/10

Palate 4/5

Overall 15/20

Bottle. Dark black with no head, although it had been open for an hour when I poured it and the boys thought it was slightly over-carbonated on initial opening (it was perfect when I got to it – there’s nothing wrong with letting your bitter, brown ale, porter or stout sit for a while). Simplistic coffee, chocolate, cola and alcohol aromas. More complex flavour profile, encompassing chocolate, cherry cola and molasses leading into a roasted coffee and smoke finish. Beautiful thick, luscious mouth feel. Porter is probably my favourite style, and this version is towards the top of the pile.