DRAFT Magazine

This monstrously strong Scotch ale took the silver medal at the 2007 GABF. It can’t hide its incredible strength, starting with a daunting dark brown appearance. The aromas are intense with a smattering of overripe plum, pear, toffee, pepper, molasses, honey, and alcohol wafting from the glass. The brew hits the tongue with equal potency, the same sweet fruits as the aroma rushing over the palate. Fortunately, the hops’ mild bitterness hampers the sweetness and keeps it from becoming cloying. Scotty Karate is more than full bodied -- it’s heavy -- with only low carbonation and an alcohol presence that is much smoother than its 9.75% ABV indicates.