#004: Bandwagon Brewery: Tartan 80 (Scottish Ale)

I picked up a half growler of Tartan 80 while stopping down for Bandwagon's Old Stud Leroy.

(Apologies for the lackluster pic. I was too busy enjoying this beer before realizing it was too late!)

The Brewery: Bandwagon Brewery (Ithaca, NY)
The Brew: Tartan 80 (Scottish Ale)
Availability: Draft Only
ABV: 4.5% // IBU: 17
Rating: 7/10
Location: Bandwagon Brewpub, Ithaca, NY

The Story? Taran 80 uses a blend of Aromatic, Honey, and Crystal malts for color and malty favor, but much more of the beer's flavor comes from vigorously boiling the first 20 gallons of wort which they pull from the mash. This caramelizes the sugars in the wort. Kent Golding hops balance out the body.

The Beer? An session Scotch Ale? Off the bat it's a very drinkable, earthy brew with a malty nose and hints of caramel. There's something about the first few sips that reminds me of Yuengling that I can't put my finger on. Just for a moment. Not comparing it at all. Must be one of the malts.

Continuing through the half growler, the beer hits it's stride - lightly roasted and semi-sweet with a great, lingering finish for such a low ABV.  Zero hops on the pallet, but almost a hint of vanilla by the third glass... the end of this really opened up.

All in all, a great brew for malt lovers as the heat starts to hit.

Nickname: "Anytime Scotch Ale"