Cranky Reviews

Not everybody still loves an Amber.

Johnny Depp used to love an Amber, in case you hadn’t Heard. But the verdict is in and Amber is no longer Johnny’s favourite.* As for myself, I still love me an amber. Could be the subtle sweetness of caramel, or the smooth and steady malt. But I’ve come to realize that often the difference between honourable mention and super suds status for any brew is hanging in the balance. Everything in it’s proper sequence and proportion. Too sweet, too harsh, too crisp, or too bitter is just too bad.

The good folks at Clifford seem to know all of this very well, being the master brewers they are, and based on some of our previous experiences with their brews. Their Nitro Porter comes to mind.  Case in point, or just a can as the case may be, is this Chain Link Vienna. Now I know what you’re thinking, a Vienna Lager isn’t an amber, is it?  My opinion is that Märzens, Calli Commons, Vienna’s are all about as close to an Amber as Johnny used to be. This one gets the Vienna moniker from the Vienna malts.

This brew pours a semi clear copper golden hue, amberesque. A slim trim bright unabused and unbruised head of white. A malt caramel aroma, with an amber disposition. And the taste? That’s one tasty brew, that is. Malt with a caramel touch of sweet and a dry crisp finish. As balanced as you can get without a prescription. I really like this brew, the caramel is nicely balanced with the malt, subtle and satisfying, with a finish that keeps you coming back for more. Vienna, Amber, call it what you will, what I’m calling it is a great beer.