The O.J. Premium Strong 16% is a bottom-fermented beer of high original gravity with a very high alcohol content. Upon pouring it in the glass, you get a clear, deep golden liquid. There’s medium to strong visual carbonation, yet the head immediately disappears. The rise of pearls starts off quite fast, but slows down to a moderate pace over time.
In the nose, caramelized orange with hints of dark chocolate. A touch of bready sweetness. The whole aromatic experience is almost reminiscent of a Jafa cake! Not entirely complex, but not one-dimensional either, slightly nostalgic, think of homemade orange jam.
Upon tasting, an amazingly full body welcomes you to the show. But take your time, there’s a light prickle of the carbonation, followed by an entire coating of the mouth. It’s creamy, almost syrupy, a unique evolution. In flavor, there’s dangerously little taste of alcohol for its high ABV; smooth and inviting, sweet and grainy. Like a loaf of bread covered with a thick, creamy caramel spread. In the back, a hint of dried winter spices: anise seed, cinnamon and allspice, waving from a distance. Hops are present, but not in any leading role.
In the finish, the 16% ABV beer mellows. It’s buttery, with a tingle of moderate bitterness from the hops, finally finding their time to shine. Caramel still apparent, with a wink of expressed orange peel. The aftertaste is warm and wintery, a little bit of marmalade, hinting back to the start. Ever so wholesome.
O.J.’s Premium 16% Strong Beer is warm and soothing. Dangerous for that matter, as its ABV might catch you off-guard if you’re not used to imbibing drinks with a higher alcohol content. A beer to savor slowly, rather than chug down while the meat is grilling on the barbecue.