Monteiths Brewing Company Doppelbock Winter Ale

I was really looking forward to reviewing this beer for the following two reasons:
1. It is a Doppelbock, traditionally quite a nice beer style;
2. Its a seasonal release, again typically resulting in a good experience.

Like 'ssar' I could not detect any aroma, nothing when I cracked the bottle, nothing when I poured it and nothing when I aggitated the beer slightly to try and release the aroma. To be honest it is the first time I've smelt so little, there is the tiniest hints of malt, but its barely detectable and you wouldn't notice it unless you are looking for it.

Appearance wise it is dark with a dark red tint easily noticeable, even without direct light and quite a light foamy head was produced upon pouring into the glass. Overall nothing spectacular, but all the same it was inviting.

If you have never tasted a Doppelbock before it is a different flavour with very heavy pronounced malt flavours backed up with a high alcohol content which results in a distinct taste. Winter Ale hits the high malt content spot on, and is followed with an spicy kick. Its not a bitterness, but rather spices that result in a bitter-like aftertaste which leaves a dry and unbalanced flavour in your mouth.
Suprisingly the high alcohol content isn't more prominent.