I made a batch with this - 1/2 pale, 1/2 Vienna malt, hopped with Galaxy and Cascade - recently. The beer is good, but it has a mild estery taste. It is more prominent once the beer warms up. It's not bad, and I know it's a desirable taste for an English style pale, but I'm a little surprised. I was assuming that it was more or less a 1056/Chico strain. Has anyone used this yeast? If so, did you notice the same thing, or did I screw it up a little?
I may be a little spoiled; been using Nottingham a lot and it is extremely clean and neutral. I'll say one thing for the NW ale - it drops pretty clear. Once a beer is warmed up enough for the chill haze to go away, it's crystal clear.