Back in 2010, I gave Wellington Brewery a lot of grief over Silver Wheat Ale, a heavily filtered and nearly flavourless wheat beer that was inexplicably released to celebrate the brewery’s 25th anniversary. It was a definite low point for a once-pioneering brewery that made its name on flavoursome and authentic UK-style ales, and thankfully, the years since have seen things turn around with a renewed focus on solid core line-up and a rotation of interesting and experimental seasonal brands. The latest highlight is a nod to the brewery’s early years: a return visit from Iron Duke, a strong ale that was retired from the regular line-up several years ago. Said to be brewed using the original recipe from 1986, it’s expectedly malt-forward, but also multi-dimensional in aroma and flavour, with beautifully layered notes of cocoa, dried leaves, prunes, coffee, a hint of spice, and a dry finish with a pleasant warmth. A true Ontario classic that is available now in the Welly Re-Booted Vol. 3 mixed pack. . . . . . #beer #craftbeer #beerphoto #craftbeerphoto #beerreview #craftbeerreview #ontariobeer #ontariocraftbeer #strongale #maltyale #wellingtonbrewery #wellyrebooted #tryawellyon
