Dark Horse 4 Elf (8/10)

Dark Horse Brewing Company of Marshall, Michigan, produces this winter warmer ale called 4 Elf.  It’s brewed with nutmeg, cloves, allspice, and “other holiday flavors”.   It is released in September, and is available in draft form, as well as 4-packs and cases.

I t pours a dark brown with thin beige head.  The aroma is very spicy, with cloves dominating that scent.  Nutmeg and ginger take a back seat in this. 

The flavor is malty, with plenty of cloves, and a certain amount of bitterness.  It’s not a bad combination at all.

Beer Advocate rates it 87/100 or “good”.  Rate Beer is more fond of it, giving it a 93 overall.  I’m in that same ballpark with my rating, an 8 out of 10.

Flavor Profile:
Sweet, Malty, Dry, or Bitter:  Mildly sweet
Spice Level:  Moderate
Hops Level:  Mild
Dominant Flavors: Cloves, followed by nutmeg
ABV: 9%
IBU:  Unknown, but probably in the 24-28 range
My Rating: 8/10