As the first Chocolate Stout I’d ever tasted, I was amazed by the rich and complex flavors. The scent of chocolate is clearly present as you take your first sip. Then, flavors of malt, hops, and bitter caramel emerge. Rich and layered, different flavors course through your mind as you take each sip. Hints of sweet chocolate play off the bitter caramel and hops. The sweet and savory flavor of chocolate also helps to minimize the bitterness of the hops. The combination makes for a very well rounded flavor… not too sweet… not too bitter.
The one negative is a slight chemical taste. It’s a taste that I can’t quite put my finger on… but, luckily it is very mild.
The sweet and savory exchange has been most suitable for use in cooking and baking. I’ve yet to drink a whole bottle. It’s a bit much for that. I prefer to drink half of a bottle and then cook with the other half.
Grade: A-
