Introduction

It started as a passion and took close to twenty years of brewing in a basement for Dan Rogers to get Griffin Claw on the map. Starting as the house brewer for Big Rock Chophouse in Birmingham, Michigan, Rogers made beer for loyal locals and quietly raised his profile. In 2010 Griffin Claw pulled in two medals at the World Beer Cup and recognition flowed in. Now their taproom is a place to visit for a half dozen year-round brews complemented by a dozen drops rotated across the calendar. Griffin Claw makes a point of touring the state to hit-up big events, some beer related and others just good people who deserve crisp beer in their hands. Nation-wide distribution has begun and the Craft Club introduces them to the North. The 3 Scrooges is a winter ale, so it relies on a warming malt and a whole whack of spices and fruit melange that will make you feel like you’ve got mulled wine in a can. Serves well at 10°C and should be enjoyed when it’s cold.

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How it looks

Pour a ruby brown colour with a slightly murky body and medium carbonation. A thin head of fine bubbles out of the can that slowly disappears.

How it smells

A baseline of warm, slightly sweet malt is joined by a riot of different spices that are tough to nail down on the nose. You’ll find pepper, nutmeg, cinnamon, and then some orange peel and honey. This beer is crazy.

How it tastes

The sweeter malt base is first and foremost in this beer, but where the different elements are a riot on the nose, it all comes together well on the tongue. The orange peel and honey match up with the malt to cut down on anything oversweet, and the spices liven up the top of the taste to blend it all together and give it character. A smooth mouthfeel and slightly dry finish give the taste a straightforward experience.

Recommended food pairing

There’s a riot of flavours happening here, but it’s all sweet enough that you can lean into some savoury flavour to complement. Make some mince pies!