Thomas Hardy's Ale

I said I would begin with a recommendation on what to drink, but instead I will tell you what NOT to drink. And that, my friends, is Thomas Hardy's Ale.

Made by O'Hanlon's Brewing Co. until last year, when they stopped brewing it apparently to the shock and dismay of random people on the internet, this Old Ale/barley wine style beer was met with uniform disgust by an entire party of beer drinkers in my house. No fewer than six beer-loving individuals tried this beer and refused to take another sip. Of these, at least one was a lover of Thomas Hardy, so literary preference did not affect the opinions of the critics.

The bottle indicates that it is best served at 55 degrees Fahrenheit and improves with age, allegedly acquiring a "rich and complex character." Considering that the remaining three bottles are likely to sit in my refrigerator until the Second Coming, this allegation may eventually be tested. Until then, avoid both Thomas Hardy's Ale and his terrible books, especially Return of the Native.

Just the facts, ma'am: Thomas Hardy's Ale, O'Hanlon's Brewing Co. Ltd, England, Old Ale/barley wine, 2007 vintage, No. P17894 edition, 8.5 fl oz, 11.7% alcohol by volume.

As seen on a toilet, which is where you should drink it because it will be coming back up shortly.