Fade Away is an American Porter brewed by Civil Society Brewing Co., and for the purposes of this craft beer review, the ale was served in a nonic pint glass from a can.
Appearance
The ale pours a clear mahogany hue that shows just a hint of ruby at the edges. The porter is topped by an inch-thick cap of mocha-colored foam that exhibits good retention. The reduction leaves behind a few droplets of residue.
Aroma
The aromatics are soft but pleasant with a scent of a mild coffee roast and a hint of sweet orange.
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Flavor
Roast malt lends a bitter coffee flavor that’s front and center. Floral and herbal hops add to the bitterness. Tangy-sweet orange mellows the bite briefly and then grapefruit arrives to carry through the finish.
Mouthfeel
The draw is smooth and creamy and then the carbonation adds a prickly feel. Medium-full body and a shade over moderate carbonation. The finish is dry and lightly astringent. The alcohol lends a little warmth.
Overall
The feel is on the heavy side and more closely resembles a stout. Its ABV runs higher but is masked well. The appearance is adequate. The aroma is pleasant and inviting. The palate is harshly bitter at first but finds a better balance as the beer warms.
Fade Away is a brew that straddles the line between styles. It has the heft of a stout and the bitterness of an IPA. It isn’t a true Porter but then it really doesn’t fit neatly into any one box. Were I to pick a style, I’d call it an American Black Ale.
Regardless, if you’re in the mood for a hoppy dark beer, Fade Away could be your brew.
