There seems to be something of a trend for using a dark coffee malt with IPA flavoring and ingredients (more reviews coming) and I for one am pleased. While the genre has yet to reach full maturity, Big Ben is a very credible attempt at creating a crisp, refreshing, almost citrusy stout. Its initial appearance makes it look big and heavy, the sort of ale bearded rugby players swig at halftime to insulate themselves against driving rain, mud, and the pain of the second half. Yet nothing could be further from the truth. It is light, making it easily drinkable even in the warm sun. The hoppy character is mostly well balanced, although slightly too strong, leaving interest in every mouthful. At 5.8% it is a bit heavy for a session beer and, even if this were not the case, it is a touch sharp for more than one or two to be desirable, but it is an excellent single pint beer for any evening session. It gets a good 7.5/10 and a regular place in future beer tastings.
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