E. J. Phair Shortys Revenge

Interestingly, I got this beer on tap @ the Bistro In Hayward, not Pete’s Brass Rail. The bar keep said this was the end of the keg, and it did seem a bit flat. The color was attractive ruddy brown with a thick cascading head. The nose and flavor were malty sweet, but as I worked my way down the pint glass, I could finally get a good whiff of the beer, which dropped a point as it went a bit vegital. The flavor was decent, and ended with a fruity influence.

Tap: I’ve had English Strong ales I have liked way better. The color is a clear red brown color. Aroma is nothing in particular, pretty weak. Initially, it is a real sweet malty flavor with some weird sour notes following it.

Draught at the brewpub (7.75%) Reddish amber, minimal head. Light orangey nose. Sweet and malty with clean, rounded mouthfeel. Some dough is evident until resiny hops takes over and gives a long bitterness. Well balanced, but not exciting.

On tap at Barclay’s in Berkeley, CA. Pours a clear deep copper with thin tan head. The aroma is light with faint roasted malts and malt sweetness. Not much else in the nose. The flavor hits with a bolt of semi sweet caramelized malts and mild pine and sweet citrus hops. The flavor is bold, rich and tasty. Solid, not stellar, offering.

On tap @ E J Phair poured a clear copper with a minimal amber head. Aromas of fruittiness, carmel, bread and a hint of pepper. Palate was light bodied and smooth. Flavors of carmel, orange and a hint of wood with a smooth dry lightly bitter finish.