12/14/2017 -- Catawba Brewing Hooligan Scotch Ale Release Party

Catawba's Hooligan Scotch Ale returns for its 6th year with a chili cook-off party in Asheville, NC.

Catawba Brewing's Limited Release Hooligan Scotch Ale returns for its sixth year.

HOOLIGAN SCOTCH ALE (8.0% ABV)

Like many regional styles, the beers of Scotland are a product of geography and the unique ingredients produced by local farmlands. Scottish ales are known for their rich, malty flavors and minimal use of hops. Historically, these indigenous beer styles can be attributed to Scotland’s northern climate, which is notably inhospitable to growing hops. So, rather than import expensive hops from England or Belgium, Scottish brewers crafted ales that showcased their locally-grown barley.

Hooligan Scotch Ale is an example of the classic Wee Heavy style – a strong dark ale that may be thought of as Scotland’s answer to the English Barley Wine. Brewed with six specialty grains, the wort goes through a long boil in the kettle to generate richer caramelization and deep mahogany color. The result is a robust, full-bodied beer, malty-sweet and higher in alcohol, with layers of caramel, toffee, chocolate, dark fruit, and light roast.