Tröegs Mad Elf Grand Cru

LOC: Hershey, Pennsylvania ABV: 11% | IBUS: 15 | SRM: N/A

What the brewer says

“If you know Tröegs, you know The Mad Elf, the mischievous belle of the holiday beer ball. In your hands is the director’s cut. Loads of tart Balaton cherries make all the difference. Bottle-conditioned and flush with notes of cinnamon and clove.”

What our panel thought

Aroma: “Red and dark cherry up front with raisins, prunes, some plum, caramel, toffee, and a touch of chocolate malt. Slight tartness.” Flavor: “Sweet and tart up front with notes of tart cherries. The cherries add complexity to the deep malt sweetness and carry through the taste. Behind the tart cherries are notes of cocoa, raisins, and plums. Honey. Moderate alcohol warmth.” Overall: “This beer was fun and complex with tart cherries and chocolate really coming through in the taste.”