Beior Le Caife is an American Brown Ale brewed by Cigar City Brewing, and for the purposes of this review, was served in a nonic pint glass from a can.
Appearance
The ale pours an opaque mahogany that bleeds to a cola brown at the edges. Capped by an inch-thick head of dense tan-colored foam that shows fine retention. Streaks of residue recede to a soapy collar. Yes, it looks very much like your favorite breakfast beverage.
Aroma
Aroma is a pleasant blend of sweet and roast; coffee and vanilla. A hint of booze appears as the beer warms.
Flavor
The palate begins nutty and toasty before ramping towards strong coffee roast. A touch of floral hops is countered by sweet vanilla. Though the beer has been aged in Jameson Irish Whiskey barrels, there’s just a hint of warming alcohol appearing in the finish.
Mouthfeel
Feels smooth and creamy like a cup of coffee. Lactose fills the body to medium-high with less-than-moderate carbonation.
Overall
The appearance is darker. Aroma and palate show more balance than expected. The feel is just a little too smooth. So, yes, the Beior Le Caife departs from the American Brown Ale style in many ways, but when considering the concept, Cigar City has crafted a brew that’s spot on. Might be a little too sweet for some but it’s sure to delight most coffee lovers.
About this Beer
Beior Le Caife translates to “beer with coffee” in Gaelic and is a variant of Cigar City’s Maduro Brown Ale. This ale is one of many brewed to complement the Jameson Caskmates Stout.