#third-barrel-after-midnight

Afters

It was Sunday evening and I needed dessert. Step forward Wavy Gravy , an imp. brown ale from Third Barrel, "imp." meaning 8% ABV, for those unfamiliar with the terminology. It looks quite black once poured, though pales to ruby with the light behind it. The aroma mixes soft toffee and red flower petals, which is a good mix for strong brown ale, though it's not as aggressively fun-forward as I'd have liked. Smoothness is what this beer is all about. The texture is light yet silky, flowing past the palate in a siphon motion, making the conscientious beer writer careful not to chug it all down quickly. The flavour is standard brown ale business, but the style is rare enough for this to be welcome, and maybe a little exciting. To the toffee is joined lavender, milk chocolate, café crème, condensed milk and pink candyfloss. It's sweet, but not overpowering, with a lacing of crunchy roast to balance any dark sugar excesses. I had expected something more full-on and boozy, but am fully p