McEwan’s Champion is – in their own words “…a very strong dark traditional Scottish Ale with an intense rich flavour, yet surprisingly easy to drink.

I mainly agree. Although it isn’t that easy to drink. It is so so gassy in the bottle and you really need to knock that gas out to enjoy it. Once the gas is out it is much easier to drink.

This is so malty – that’ll be down to its “…sweet and fruity character…” and you can tell it is strong. It takes you aback first mouthful but does get easier to drink as you go.

McEwan say this is an Award Winning Ale – although they don’t say which award – although it is implied on the bottle notes that it wins the McEwan’s award for their best ale!

Personally, I am not a fan. And I like the stronger ales – Fuller’s Golden Pride in particular. McEwan’s Champion comes in at 7.3% but isn’t nearly as enjoyable as the other stronger ales I have sampled. And twenty minutes on I can still taste it in my mouth. I need some water!

It is OK – just a bit overpowering. Still better than the other Scottish ales – ie. Caledonian (sorry chaps).