ONIX Dunkel: from the makers of Ambar

Ambar, which is made the La Cervecería del Centro, is probably the most technically perfect beer made here in Costa Rica- for the same reason, and it being a marzenbier, it is not very outgoing or original. Not that I am saying that is a bad thing. 

At a recent visit to one of my favorite spots to drink, I was told they have a dunkel by the same crew. 

This one is bold for sure.  It says it comes in at 7.5% and it has the malt to back that up. Not bitter, yet toasted, not sweet yet full bodied and malty. It has a almost creamy mouthfeel to it which is cut by a nice level of carbonation. This is a good beer. 

Now, could I drink this all night?; no. Will I order this again?; definitely. 

Once again a technical success that appears to be pushing the limits a little bit more than I expected. 

ONIX by La Cervecería del Centro

Dunkel :: 7.5 abv 

Rating CR: 8/10

Rating: 6.5/10

Crown Royal Maple Finished

In my youth, the big thing was all the flavored Absolut Vodkas. Please wore shirts, did shots, and saved bottles. I am usually an on-the-rocks guy, so the flavor was often  too bold, and many of the flavors tasted  fake to me.

A few years back Jack Daniels came out with the Honey version- I was not a fan.

However, about 2 years ago I bumped into Crown Royal's Maple Finished and I must say I like it.

Now, this is not something I could drink all night long, it has a strong aroma and sweet finish that does not allow heavy drinking, but this is a flavored spirit that soul.

There are cocktails that can be made, however this is such a pleasing drink neat. It pours thin, like any other whiskey, but you are almost immediately hit by that subtle nostalgic aroma of maple syrup.

At 80 proof, visually you see little difference from its unflavored counterpart- but a little aeration in the glass and and a nasal draw hits you with a beautiful smell of maple syrup and rich caramel.

The taste is warm and pleasing. There is a hint or sweetness, but not too sweet... surprisingly low body for the aroma, but perhaps a little more than the normal Crown. The sweet aromatic spirit goes down smooth and finishes with just a little bite.

Conclusion: Its great.