13 Jan 2008 a pint poured at The Carpenters Arms, Bransgore, Dorset. Same pour and look as the bottled version, although the head was smaller and did not last long. However, this was altogether a different beer. It was nowhere near as tasty as the bottled version and seemed somewhat thinner. It was a bit of a let down, really. This is what I had to say about the bottle: 15 Jul 2007 Bottle 500ml. A satisfying aroma of malts, nuts and dried fruit. Pours a lovely copper red with a good tan head. Lovely flavours, with the malt and hops shining through and blending well with nutty, fruity flavours, and a hint of deep roast coffee. A good full body and good carbonation. Smooth on the palate with delicious lingering tastes. A fine strong ale from Fullers. Good all year round. So, bottom line is to go for the bottled version every time.

(Cask at Gallows Bird on 2008-01-26) A red-brownish colour. Medium head. Roasted malts in taste. Nothing special.

Cask, Thomas Rigbys, Liverpool. Dense amber colour. Malty caramel aroma. Very rich and heavy. Almost christmas puddingesque. Pretty good.

Cask. Deep amber colour with mediumsized slightly off-white head. Lacing. Aroma is sweet malts, some roast, caramel, mild spices, nectar and wood. Flavour is the same with some mild licorice and dry dark fruits. Wellbalanced and pleasant.