BeerCritic

first impression: Rich deep dark chocolate color with an inch thick head. A true stout. Depth is impenetrable. A darkness in flavor too, though not rough or rocky – very smooth and quite appealing. Dull and has feel of clay slip. Definite chocolate undertones, with hints of licorice and allspice. It’s delectable.

Visuals — Color, depth, Belgian lace, legs: The color is absolutely thick with a deep brown. Only at the very edges does any caramel color emerge. It’s mysterious. Head is thick even after retreating. It is a solid stout, and fairly still, like a moat. Lace is intricate and leggy. Crystalline structures are well supported and the lace sparkles.

Olfactory — Aroma: Aroma is like a sealed box of fudge. You can’t keep the flavor from scenting the air.

Taste — Hoppiness, bite, maltiness, flavor: The taste is full, deep, and entirely satisfying. It reminds of a chocolate whole wheat bread.

Tactile — weight, mouthfeel: This is a warming, hearth of a beer. It’s quite dense to look at and to lift and is absolutely full of heft.

second impression: This is the first stout I’ve ever actually enjoyed, as others seem watery, or too heavy, or without character and I fear others will pale comparatively. This is an absolutely fantastic beer.