My first intro to Golden Monkey happened a few years ago when owner Bill Covaleski poured me one during a visit to Victory Brewing Co. in Downingtown, PA. I remember, while sitting at the bar, being startled. Recently, I pulled out one of my taller tulip glasses and settled in with a bad film and a 22 oz bottle. Bright golden, with a slight haze and a very tight white head, set the scene. The nose was all spice, some clove to be sure. Now, remember I have issues with temperature, hence the big bottle. I spent over an hour with this beer. It began on the thin-ish side with the carbonation dominating. However, in time the beer opened up with a lot of bubblegum and candy hints in the background. It ended with a lot of spice and pepper. Interestingly, the high alcohol content has a very subtle impact on the flavor. Years later, this beer still stops me.