I can assure you that after your first swallow (unladen, of course), this fine example of a traditional English pale ale will cast its richly malty and pleasantly bitter spell on your palate. The ale’s strong roasted malt flavors impart a caramel-like sweetness to the brew, and the slightly fruity hop flavors cut through the sweetness to create a rounded, even finish. The bitterness does not pack a hop wallop, however.