American Porters always feel, to me at least, a little more like stouts and they’re all the better for it.
This little bottle is no different and it’s very nice indeed.
Opening with a smell of sugar cane, lemon, coffee, cinnamon and fruits, Anchor’s Porter just wants to be drunk.
It’s fathoms deep in the glass with just the merest trace of a head and is packed full of wonderful things.
There’s grown up stuff like espresso, brandy snaps, stewed plums and extra dry green woody hops.
But there’s also a whole bunch of fun kids’ stuff too, like fizzy dandelion and burdock, sherbet filled flying saucers and jelly sweets.
I love the fact that with each mouthful I find myself saying, “Oh! That’s nice,” about yet another layer of flavour.
HIdden in the background is a very meaty, almost Marmite yeastiness along with toffee apples made with over ripe fruit and a slightly singed toffee that provides a smoky aside.
And if you think that’s not enough, you are also treated to a tongue wringing dryness that cracks your lips and makes you want another mouthful.
Simply superb.