Ale | BLACK WATCH CREAM PORTER

A true Scotsman might refer to the potency of these ales in “shillings,” a custom that goes back to the time when beer was taxed by its alcohol content. McEwan’s Scotch Ale is a “90-shilling” ale, the strongest type and the one that was the most heavily taxed. (There’s also a lighter McEwan’s 80-shilling that is not available here.) Serve this one with hearty winter foods such as stews, roasts - or even haggis.

BUYER'S GUIDE

TRAQUAIR HOUSE ALE, $4/bottle
Powerful and Rich
try it with stilton cheese

MACTARNAHAN'S BLACK WATCH CREAM PORTER, $7/six-pack
Creamy and Malty
great quaffing with roasted nuts

MCEWAN'S SCOTH ALE, $9/six-pack
Potent and Hearty
goes with stews and roasts