Surly - Cynic Ale

Tonight I'm reviewing another brew from our friends at Surly. Their Cynic Ale is the lone Belgian style ale they produce. It's not a surprise, however, since Surly produces a handful of brews from outside the states, Surly Hell bring another example within their repertoire.

In standard Surly fashion there is a short background of the beer printed on the can. "oh great, a fizzy yellow beer in a can, that's just what the craft beer world needs! Cynic Ale melds old world ingredients in a new school style. French malted barley, English oats and Belgian yeast create honey & black pepper flavors. Lively Slovenian hops provide the floral, apricot and peach notes. Toss your doubts away, toss one back and enjoy!"

Slightly hazy, golden orange and lacking in any head retention, the appearance is a little lacking. The color is nice though. Lots of spice with hints of fruit within the aroma. It's certainly inviting and not subtle. The initial flavor is full of Belgian spice, black pepper with a subtle fruit background balancing everything out. The apricot is actually more prominent than I had expected but I like it. The 6.5% ABV is hidden behind the robust flavor profile and warms as you finish each sip.

Overall - This is a nice, bold example of a Belgian style brew from Surly. Nothing too harsh or out of place. The flavors mesh nicely and provide a unique level of complexity that is typically not found in other Surly brews. If you like Belgian beers and Surly then you will certainly enjoy Cynic Ale.