If you are a hard working blue collar laborer then you need a hard working beer. That beer can be found in Samuel Smith’s famous Taddy Porter. Known for being the beer of the working class of England in the 18th century, the Porter was a rich, full-bodied beer. Taddy definitely fits that description. Brewed with dark malts, there are notes of mild to deep coffee, chocolate, and roasted caramel. There is a pleasant hint of fruitiness due to the ale yeast. In the glass, there is a thick tan head which remains until the last sip. The mouthfeel is smooth and creamy with great balance between sweet and bitter flavors. The sweetness is pronounced in caramel, toffee, and nutty highlights, while the bitter side is characterized by roasted coffee and a slightly dry chocolaty bite. There are toasted biscuit and grain notes that help to bring both sides into a delicious melody. Almost all Porters have a sharp coffee and roasted taste, but Brown Porters are a mellower, sweeter. The hops used are traditionally of the UK variety which lends enough bitterness to balance out the malty backbone. Taddy Porter tastes very much like an English beer in that it has a distinct aftertaste. This might be partly due to the water and yeast stained used. Most of the time an Irish or English ale yeast is preferred, but occasionally a lager yeast will be substituted giving it a dry finish.

Overall, I would highly recommend this beer as an after work meal by itself or with some meat and potatoes (also try it with a nice chocolate dessert). It is quite possibly one of the best Porters I’ve ever had.

ABV: 5.0%

Grade: A