My first tasting this evening was from Guar-Hop Estates. I had high hopes for this new establishment, but found only disappointment. Its weak, pinkish color had me skeptical from the first pour. The flavor was blunt and artless, and even a mead-loving Nord would have found it too sweet. No respectable Dunmer could enjoy this.
I moved on quickly to last year’s Five Isles reserve blend, which immediately justified its demanding price. I was satisfied with the warm, ruddy color and sharp tang in its nose. The bitterness was balanced by a pleasant sour note, and it is quite obvious this was brewed from the finest Ascadian comberries. I shall order more right away.
