I see the Moylan's line around here a lot since they are a Northern California brewery, about an hour west of where I live. I bought this one on a recommendation from a friend who knows just how much I love a good beer and am always on the prowl for something new. I always feel a smidge of trepidation when trying something completely new, but, here's a tip, folks...GET OVER IT. It's just beer, have some fun.

Pouring the Kilt Lifter into my glass, I was happy to see a gorgeous, not-too-dark brunette color. Being a Scotch ale, and me being not very knowledgeable about the different styles, I had an image in my head of a barleywine type drink, so the color and clarity of it was a lovely surprise. The aroma of this beer was fantastic; subtly spicy, a little creamy...absolutely yummy. The flavor was also a great treat. The smokiness hits right up-front, followed by a sweet-but-not-too-sweet shot to your tongue. It's a great combo, like barbeque, sweet and smoky. The hops then fills your whole mouth, almost making you forget the sweet and smoky. Layered with that is a leafy green, almost grassiness. Not like drinking leaves, just a very fresh, ALIVE sensation...and then you swallow. The finish brings back a hint of sweet as it goes down, then disappears. Now don't take that the wrong way. It disappears from your mouth leaving such a memory of the deliciousness you just drank that you HAVE to go back in for more.

Overall, I loved this beer. It's not for everyone...at 8% ABV, and full of complexity, it's definitely for a real beer drinker, but soooo worth it. So, get out that tartan and take off your knickers now, because THIS beer will make you want to.