Score: 84/100 – Very Good
From a 473ml can served cool at 9 degrees Celsius into a TeKu glass. Canned on 15/09/22 – making this two weeks young.
I picked up the can a week ago from a local specialty shop. Second official Messorem breview. Another hazy IPA. An exciting break from heavy stouts.
Appearance 6/6
The beer pours an opaque pale gold with 4.5cm of frothy, creamy, off-white head which dissipates into a craggy cap within 3+ minutes. Good lacing and head retention. Good looks for a hazy IPA.
Aroma 21/24
Medium-strong intensity with good balance. The aroma is inviting, rustic, and supremely fruity.
Zesty grapefruit and tangeries dominate with mild tropical fruit sweetness at the back. Low pine and a hint of cereal grain.
The dry nose is quite mild with citrusy notes, significant grainy-crackery malt character, and a hint of sweat.
Flavour 34/40
Follows the aroma with strong intensity, sharp-ish balance, and pronounced perceived bitterness.
The brisk palate opens up with loads of citrus (grapefruit + tangerines), salt, mild pine, and a touch of herbs. The center remains consistent with salted citrus, woody tones, and indistinct herbs.
The medium-length finish is strong and sharp-ish with notes of pine, grapefruit, herbs, and crackery malt. Rustic.
Mouthfeel 9/10
Medium body with lively carbonation. The mouthfeel is crisp and somewhat prickly with low creaminess. No apparent alcohol warming and a dry finish. Mild hop-derived astringency with no actual harshness on the palate.
Overall 14/20
Messorem Bracitorium’s Canal Fatal is a very good beer.
Appealing looks and a rustic yet deep hop-forward aroma. I wish the nose presented more layers and charm but I respect the clarity and depth. On the palate the beer is consistent, delivering enjoyable flavour and steering clear from any off-notes. The mouthfeel is missing a little bit of weight and the finish is surprisingly dry. Once that’s paired with mild astringency, I feel like the mouthfeel is lacking a degree of finesse.
Overall Canal Fatal is a well-made brew but I have a hard time justifying the cost knowing I can find another IPA for half the price and an equally enjoyable drinking experience. This is not necessarily the brewery’s fault. These days, with such high hopping rates, the cost of making these beers is certainly a factor.
For a value-driven fellow, I must always ask myself: “will it be worth the money?” In this case, I can’t say it is. If money is not a consideration, then by all means get yourself a 4-pack.
Beerfection 
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