As we get into the cooler months of the year, it’s time to start embracing those darker beers once again and Yukon Brewing’s Lead Dog Olde English Ale is the perfect beer to make that transition.
At 7% alcohol by volume, this beer drinks very smooth. It has some intricate malt flavours, with a medium mouth-feel and a very light bitterness to it. This comes from a careful blend of six different malts, and 2 months of aging after fermentation. While it may pour like a porter, it really drinks much easier, making this 7% beer far too easy to drink more than a few.
We first came across this excellent ale during the Alberta Beer Festival several years ago. Despite judging dozens upon dozens of beer during that festival, the Lead Dog was one that stood out both for its malty character and how easy it was to drink. It was the surprise of the show, and has managed to remain in our minds for many years afterwards. It doesn’t hurt that it’s gone on to win several Canadian brewing awards either.
Now here’s the sad part. Because the Yukon is far north, and Yukon Brewing despite having been around since the 90’s is still a small-ish operation, it’s not that easy to find Lead Dog. That being said, residents of the Yukon, BC, Alberta, NWT and Quebec should be able to find Yukon Brewing in some select retailers. They’ve got a quick guide here.
Ale/Sessions 