Ozzy Ale
Brewery :: The Brewer's Art
I like to try the most recent beers available at my favorite craft beer place, The Winery on Kent Island, Chester MD. The beer this week was Ozzy Ale from The Brewer’s Art of Baltimore, MD. Who wasn’t a fan of Black Sabbath back during the Paranoid days. While some myths can't be substantiated, the rumor that he bit off the head of a bat while on stage was actually true. Apparently he thought it was a fake bat that was thrown on stage. He was later taken to the hospital to be tested for rabies.
Tasting Notes :: The pour led to an easy nickel head. It soon dissipated. I noticed a malty sweetness but not too strong. It has a very nice finish in the back of the mouth - slightly sweet. The mouth-feel was smooth and had a pleasant effervescence - not over sharp. I rated it as a 4.5/5.0 the first time I had a glass but increased it to 4.7/5.0 the second time. Bottom line, I love this beer and it will be one I have again - hopefully soon. It most certainly will require a trip to The Brewer's Art in Baltimore.
From the brewery :: Our answer to the Belgian «devil» beers (i.e. Lucifer, Duvel, etc.). Both rich and dry, this beer is all too easy to consume in large quantities. Hopped with Styrian Goldings.
Style :: Belgian Strong Ale
Color :: 17.3 SRM
7.25% abv
Interesting fact :: A portion of the proceipts are donated to Bat Conservation International. Only fitting - good call.
The newspaper Baltimore Sun named Brewer's Art Ozzy Ale No. 1 in their declaration of Maryland's 20 best beers.
“This may not have been the first beer you downed when entering the hallowed Brewer's Art. Resurrection is the most recommended, best-known, most seen around town. And we like that one, too (see No. 4). But there's something a bit more special about Ozzy, Brewer's golden-colored, Belgian-style strong pale ale/happiness in a glass. It's strong and rich, but not overbearing; it's oh-so-easy to drink, but doesn't skimp on flavor. It finishes just right, with an earthy, lightly fruity smell.” October 17, 2012, Jerry Jackson, Baltimore Sun
