Smuttynose Big Beer Series; Homunculus: Freeing the Little Beer Lover In All of Us

A Homunculus traditionally refers to a smaller person. In the theory of preformationism, a homunculus is believed to refer to a fully developed yet smaller human that exists within the sperm. There is also the argument that a homunculus refers to a smaller version of ourselves that exists behind the cortex of our brain and views our world on a "screen" and basically implements all of our physical and mental reactions based on the rules we have been given as humans.

However, while I'm busy waxing poetic on my obsession with human psychology and alchemy, there's beer you folks want to read about. The definition of a homunculus is important though when it comes to the newest big beer release from our beloved Portsmouth based Smuttynose brewery. Originally named The Gnome in honor of Brasserie d'Achouffe, a Belgium based brewery known for it's iconic Gnome mascot that graces the labels of their bottles.

A Belgian golden ale, Homunculus delivers more of a full grown beer than most.
Pours a hazy orange, yellow with a thick bright white head and seems to cloud up more as it rests. Brilliant amber seems to age throughout.

The aroma is spicy, citrusy and rustic. Strong notes of sweet clove and banana, subtle warm orange liqueur aromas linger in the background.

The taste is a wild ride of spicy Belgian yeast and fruit. A classic Belgian golden flavor lingers on the palate while a spicy hop character lingers in the back. Definitely a sipping beer and not a big gulp beer by any means. Would go excellent with any sort of Indian food, antipasto, lighter fare Italian or charcuterie, artisan cheeses.

This beer is a life form all its own and one can taste the time and passion that went into brewing it. So grab a bottle and let that little person watching from the inside enjoy as well!