Why a great big strapping Scots ale mid-week? Taxes done, that's why. I hate doing taxes. I hate all government forms. I make errors. I expect someone to call me up and ask "why?" and all I can reply is "I have no idea." I had to apply for a passport recently, too. It has been a tough stretch.

So, something nice from the stash - this tartaned offering from London's Meantime Brewing. It pours a dark cola mahogany with a fine mocha foam and rim. On the nose there is cocoa with a bit of molasses or even apple butter, that southwest Ontario German treat. In the mouth, more of those flavours with a bit of burnt toast scrape as well as minty twiggy hopping that falls short of cutting the gentle cloy. Very soft in the mouth and gently carbonated. Nicely reassuring in these times of burdensome government forms. Sadly, only one brewing according to the interwebs. Sic transit gloria Scoti.

Rich and abiding admiration from the BAers. By the way, did you know that they have their own tartan? It is tough to make out, however, as it is black on black.