Anchor Our Special Ale (2003)

Dark black, tawny brown color with small off-white head and little "sprigs" of lacing on the glass. Strong caramel and spice (cinnamon, pepper, ginger, corriander) dominate the nose up front then a light fruit hoppiness whispers in your ear. The flavor is fairly bitter (this would mellow wonderfully to smooth out) and lightly hoppy but with an apparent sweetness to it that makes it very tasty. The mouthfeel is a little rich and dry. This year's OSA is very crisp and refreshing, go Anchor!

On tap. Pours dark, capped with a creamy head. Nose is heavily spiced and lightly fruity. Mild, creamy palate. Sweet, lightly tart and vinous balanced by a strong touch of bitterness. Better and smoother than the 2002 vintage by far.

Had this on tap. The beer is dark amber with red hue. The smell is sweet like cherries. The taste is sweet but with a bitter finish. Overall very good for a holiday spice beer.

Very dark, deep muddy ruby color with a frothy, light brown head. Aroma of fruit and spices. Some spice and sweet to the taste with a bitter finish. A good brew.

Dark ruby color with light chocolate spice smell.Kind of like a porter. Spices are not super strong which leaves a nice sweeter nutty chocolate feel in the mouth. Finishes dry bitter and long. A good seasonal ale.

(bottle) nice tan head. Deep mahogony. Like a porter, taste of cloves and some pine. Slightly ascerbic. Not as spiced as the 2002.

From a wine glass at room temp (65-70 deg F - nearly mandatory, coolness ruins this beer). Dark brown, minimal head. Light aroma of chocolate and herbs. Flavor is clean! Spices are very under-stated this year. Chocolate notes with a dry finish. Not sweet at all, with a surprisingly light body. I'd take a little more body in a winter seasonal. Nutmeg flavors skirt around the edges in this one, providing accent. Nicely done with the spices this year.

Enh. A bit disappointing. Kind of like a coffee stout without the kick. I'll stick to their steam and porter styles, which are pretty awesome.