Powerful ruby ale that delivers on all fronts. (Wychwood Hobgoblin)

Member Name: Squeesfan

Product:	Wychwood Hobgoblin
Date:	01/07/09 (27 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Great taste, aweomse name, and he's a goblin.

Disadvantages: Can be slightly overwhelming for people wanting a more hoppy drink

Wychwood may just be one of the most appealing breweries in England. Not only are their creations fantastic, but they also entwine it with interesting artwork and names.

Hobgoblin is probably the most well known of the wychwood beers, and for good reason. This ruby rascal is a dark ale of curious flavour. Hints of fruit are only detected after the initial punch of the dark malt and brooding bitterness is overcomed. Originally 5.5%, I have noticed the goblin has become slightly more stoic in his elder years - now clocking in at a weaker, but still punchy, 5%.

Unless you are lucky to find it as a guest, or live near the brewery, it can be hard to find this fellow on tap (although he makes the rounds during Halloween a lot!) so I recommend going with the bottle. While, with all bottles, it is slightly carbonated, the mature strength of this brilliant ale is still obvious, and will become either a staple favourite or a staunch advocate.

For me, it is the former.

Summary: While it may not be everyones cup of beer, Hobgoblin has proved to be a fan and public favourite.