It may be bitter, but I'm not! (Batemans XXXB)

Member Name: sickboyedd

Product:	Batemans XXXB
Date:	26/08/01 (62 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Good colour, Lovely flavour

Disadvantages: You might not like it if you dislike bitters

On a recent trip to a nearby town, I discovered that a new J.D. Wetherspoons had opened in, as is usually the case, an old bank. As it was a hot day, the promise of a pint was too much for my weak willed brain, so I popped in to see what they had to offer.

My luck was in, the pub had been open for less than a week, so nice clean taps and pipes and also new casks of beer. This boded well, as in Cambridge Wetherspoons at least, the real ale always seems tarnished somehow.

I ordered a pint of the Batemans Triple XB, and it was served cool, but not cold, which is how I like beer.

The colour is a dark reddish-brown, and it smells quite malty, with tinges of fruit in there too. I'd like to say I spent time analysing the smell but I was straight in there, my thirst getting the better of me!

It tastes malty, as expected, but has a quite complex character, with a delicious hop flavour coming through too. It certainly hit the spot. Its got quite a light body, quenching with a sweet maltiness that gives it richness too. As to be expected with a bitter, it leaves a nice soft bitterness in your mouth, making you want another taste.

The beer is ABV 4.8% and has won several awards for Batemans brewery including Best Bottled English Premium Ale 1999/2000. For more information (but only a little) visit the Bateman Brewery website at:

http://www.bateman.co.uk/


Having finished the pint, I went on my way again, but next time I'm in the area, I'll be sure to pop in and have another.

Summary: