Lion Bridge Compensation

This 4.5% ABV English Mild Ale is from the Lion Bridge Brewing Company of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. This is a style we don't see enough; when well done it is an amazing beer (hint: theirs is very well done). 

The beer pours a very dark brown and dark ruby, nearing black. There is a half-inch of tan head that fades to just a ring. The aroma is deep, rich, dark roasted, chocolate, coffee, and hazelnut. The taste follows the aromas, very dark roasted, adding in char. The finish is moderately bitter, mostly dry, with an additional nuttiness on the hazelnut. The beer drinks soft, with a fine, yet intense, carbonation. This is absolutely delicious.