Outer Banks Santas Little Hammer

Santa’s Little Hammer pours to a murky, rusty brown color with a creamy off white head, and a moderate amount of carbonation. The nose of this beer is wonderful, with a good mix of zesty and spicy aromas. Aromas of orange peel, cirtic hops, sweet malt, and chocolate marry with hints of juniper, clove, and cinnamon. The palate is firm with lots of good sweet and caramel malt flavors, estery fruity flavors, and subtle hints of spice. Santa’s Little Hammer finishes with more malty/fruity/spicy flavors up front, then ends with notes of orange peel and a zesty and tangy hop bitterness. This was a well done, very drinkable, little spiced beer, from a great brewpub/restaurant on the OBX. Kill Devil Hills, NC is a great place to stay on the OBX, and the Outer Banks Brewing Station is right on the main strip of HWY 158, so this place is easy to find. Their menu changes with the season, and their focus on gourmet dishes makes this place a bit upscale, but not too pretentious or pricey. The restaurant is very popular, so expect some long waits during peak seasons, and peak hours. The bar area is very comfortable and spacious, and it is a great place to to hang out and enjoy some craft brews. Their fresh ales, are a nice contrast to the lagers you will get at Weeping Radish, so a stop at the Outer Banks Brewing Station is well worth it for a beer lover.