The pride of Peterborough (aside from those world-famous canoes), Publican House is a great little brewery, operated by the usual passionate, friendly, welcoming folks. I had no idea they made a stout when I walked through the doors of the brewery, but was very happy to accept a sample, then buy a growler. Let’s be honest, though. I’ve never not been happy to buy a growler…. I might have regretted drinking it all the next day, but that’s a different type of regret.
Poured from a lovely brown growler with no freshness date marked (though there was a spot for it), the beer was nearly black brown, and opaque. Head was moderate and tan, which shrunk to a frothy coating that laced the glass well. Aromas were heavily of smoke and coffee and burnt sugar. Maybe a touch of earthy hop, but I could be dreaming. The taste was big and robust, nearly a porter, in my books. Smoky and rich, with tastes that moved from burnt sugar, to leather to coffee. Definitely some hops that dried out the finish, but no taste to speak of. Body was actually a bit bigger then I expect with a stout (again, hearkening to Porter), with a nice carbonation. For a regular stout/porter drinker, this beer would go down a treat time and again, though it might be a bit too complex and smokey for the average lager quaffer. Sit, I quite liked this one. Shame I’m told they won’t be brewing it again for a few months. Though let’s be honest: it’s not like I get to Peterborough often….
Can’t wait to try their House Ale with a sheep’s milk cheddar this Sunday ($40, 4pm at Castro’s), let me know if you want to get in on the action.
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