Kainin’s Best Strong Bitter

The Beer Review by Emperor Rog.

This best bitter was our club’s contribution to Learn to Homebrew Day in November of 2025. The recipe was designed by our club treasurer, Kainin. He was aiming for BJCP category 11b, Best Bitter. But, as is our wont, we hit a higher starting gravity than indicated, 1.050. So, correct or not I used the category 11c, Strong Bitter for my notes below. Cheers all.

Aroma

The style has a wide range for hops aroma, from medium-high to medium-low. When this beer was younger it was more floral and fruity and now it has a slight earthy or maybe spicy character. The malt character is more prominent, sometimes hinting at caramel and sometimes raisin, while not being fruity. Occasionally there is a hint of alcohol which seems odd since this beer is not that strong. Score: 7

Appearance

It’s on the copper side. Using an app on my phone I estimate an SRM of 14. The carbonation levels are good, nice and moderate and showing a good off white head. Alas, it’s supposed to have brilliant clarity and this beer does not possess such a quality. It is far too murky. Score: 1

Flavor

It does have moderately high bitterness levels that hit just right for this beer. The malt character is definitely present, too. There is a biscuity, cracker-like quality to the malt which is very pleasing. This combines very well with the fruity taste of the hops. While alcohol seems to seep in at the aroma level it is not perceptible in the flavor. It finishes dry, if a bit thin and, dare I say it, just a little sharp. Score: 17

Mouthfeel

Once again, carbonation levels feel correctly moderate. It has a good medium body. Score: 4

Overall

This is a wonderful pub beer, like the old early to mid-90s amber ales. Hops and malt are both present, neither dominating. There’s just enough alcohol here (5.3%) to enjoy but not enough to make the spouses worry. Yay, Learn to Homebrew Day! Score: 10

FINAL SCORE: 39

The club made another winner with this beer. It’s an easy drinking pub beer. What else can be desired?

Alas, with this beer we must bid adieu to Kainin who is moving to seek better opportunities for his family. We wish you all the best, Kainin, thanks for all the knowledge and the great beers over the past couple of years.