Today’s craft beer review is going to be another sample from the awesome Samuel Smith’s Old Brewery located in Tadcaster, United Kingdom called the Taddy Porter.
No need to bore you with “filler.” Let’s get right into the commercial description from the website, samuelsmithsbrewery.co.uk.
Brewed with well water (the original well at the Old Brewery, sunk in 1758, is still in use, with the hard well water being drawn from 85 feet underground), malted barley, roasted malt, yeast and hops. Fermented in ‘stone Yorkshire squares’.
“Very dark, fairly full in body and packed with flavor. Intense, dry tangy character of roasted barley.”
How ’bout it? You ready?
Packaged in a 12 oz. bottle, this Porter has an ABV of 5.0%.
This beer appeared a very dark brown/black color with a thin outline of ruby across the bottom of the glass. The head was very full, fluffy, smooth, soft and light tan in color. It had very nice retention and it left some very pleasing lacing behind.
The aroma had a very creamy, buttermilk characteristic. That familiar and distinct Yorkshire yeast came on like gangbusters and mingled well with some sweet notes of subtle chocolate and a dark, fruity prune. Roasted, but very light coffee hints with extra cream. Super well balanced and even. The bouquet is just begging me to take a sip.
The taste started with a wonderful creamy goodness and some sweet yeast. A little tickle of bitterness on the side of the tongue from some hops changed it up a bit, but they never became overbearing or obtrusive. Generous amounts of roasted barley malt with some light kisses of chocolate. A relaxed roasted coffee bean brought about a nice “charred” flavor, of which I find very enticing in my Porters. Again, well balanced, harmonious and GOOD!!!
The mouthfeel was a very convincing medium to full. Dry, creamy, smooth, slick and velvety. It slides down so easy. It’s not too heavy or filling either. A nice dose of flavor was left on the palate, but not so much that makes it hard to drink.
Well, like all other Samuel Smith’s brews….. it’s dang good!!! Without a doubt, one of my favorite Porters and one of the best on the market right now. Easily drinkable. I could sip on this all night with ease. If you have not tried it, give it a shot. It’s a must if you like Porters. Personally, I don’t think that I like it quite as well as the Samuel Smith’s Oatmeal Stout, but it doesn’t fall far behind in the discussion. Like I’ve said in other Sam Smith’s reviews, they just know how to create a well balanced, spectacular beer that always fits the style to a “t”. What they produce is always top notch. In all honesty, I don’t know that I have ever tried a brew of theirs that wasn’t delightful and fun to drink.
What’s your favorite Samuel Smith’s brew? Leave a comment and tell me about it.
Thanks for reading everyone. Have a great weekend.
Cheers.
Score: 4.35 out of 5
Grade: A
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Sud Savant
August 20, 2011 at 5:26 am
I buy this for a friend every time he comes into town. There are never any complaints. Nice, accurate review! I have Sam Smith Imperial Stout on deck for a review in the future and you may have inspired me. 🙂
Sud Savant
August 20, 2011 at 5:26 am
I buy this for a friend every time he comes into town. There are never any complaints. Nice, accurate review! I have Sam Smith Imperial Stout on deck for a review in the future and you may have inspired me. 🙂
shrews824
August 20, 2011 at 9:00 pm
I don't think I would complain if a friend brought me a Taddy Porter from time to time. Haha. Also, thanks for the compliment and I'm glad you like the review.
Cheers,
Scott
shrews824
August 20, 2011 at 9:00 pm
I don't think I would complain if a friend brought me a Taddy Porter from time to time. Haha. Also, thanks for the compliment and I'm glad you like the review.
Cheers,
Scott
Fresh Roasted Coffee
August 24, 2011 at 6:21 am
I always ask my mate to buy me Taddy Potter whenever he visit his town. I like it most on cold summer night.
Cody
Fresh Roasted Coffee
August 24, 2011 at 6:21 am
I always ask my mate to buy me Taddy Potter whenever he visit his town. I like it most on cold summer night.
Cody
shrews824
August 24, 2011 at 1:01 pm
Fresh Roasted Coffee,
I tell ya, I think I could enjoy it most anytime!!! Haha. Truly a great beer. Thanks for reading and commenting. Check back from time to time if you have a few moments.
Cheers,
Scott
shrews824
August 24, 2011 at 1:01 pm
Fresh Roasted Coffee,
I tell ya, I think I could enjoy it most anytime!!! Haha. Truly a great beer. Thanks for reading and commenting. Check back from time to time if you have a few moments.
Cheers,
Scott