This Irish Ale from Windsor, Vermont's, Harpoon just made me want to go out and pick up Ireland's own Smithwicks for comparison. Harpoon's interpretation of an Irish Ale without comparing it to Smithwicks, is a nice selection and a good all around effort. The aroma is mildly fruity with notes of yeast. The flavor has a good caramel and malt character with mild hop bitterness. This a somewhat dry beer with a slight nutty and spicey finish. I thought this was a very rewarding Irish style ale and worth a try. That is until I directly compare it to Smithwicks. Harpoon's Irish is a darker, richer ale that is better in the cooler and colder months as it reminds me of a good stew.
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