Pours somewhat cloudy with an inch of tan and tiny bubbled foam. Ravid effervescent highlights the liquid below. Foam has nice staying power, lathering as it begrudgingly dissipates. Lacing is quite thick and covering with most sliding back within a few seconds.
Aroma is definitely malt forward. Caramel and toffee sweetness greet the nose while dark fruits turn the sense away from the candied backbone. Slight alcohol.
Taste is all about the dark fruits. They mingle with sweetness the entire way but the fruit over states them and builds mildly through to the finish, lingering. Alcohol comes in late and nicely.
Big end of medium mouth feel here without cloying sugars but does leave the mouth dry with the lips slightly sticky. Carbonation is medium or better.
Didn't know what to expect here as my first go around wasn't pleasant with Highland but this is one good Old Ale. Well balanced and smooth. Enjoy!