The first time I ever tried Hobgoblin was in 2004 at the House of Brews on 46th St in New York City. I remember really liking it at the time enough to order 3 pints to compliment the bar food. Fast forward 7 years to me looking for a new microbrew to try when I came across Wychwood Brewery’s Hobgoblin again this past week and decided to give it another try.
This is a ruby red-brown ale in the best English style. It’s dark malty flavor comes through first, but this is mellowed the colder you drink it. The pour reveals a thick head that subsides quickly. I found the aroma slightly overpoweringly malty, but I think I’m a little more sensitive to this than others.
Overall I enjoyed this ale. It’s 4.5% ABV is a little low for my liking and I would treat this as a stout or something to enjoy after dinner. I think the flavor falls a little flat in comparison to other brown ales I’ve enjoyed. At around $8 per six pack or $3.50 for a 22oz bottle, this is a reasonably priced import and something you may want to check out for something different.
Adventures in Food 