Urban Chestnut Brewing Company Kinsale Stout
What the brewers say
“Named for the southern Ireland town boasting a Caribbean sister town of the same name, this foreign export-style stout has become an Irish-perfected, Caribbean-loved style of beer. Historically generously hopped and full of roasted malt flavors, our version leans toward the creamy, sweet side of things.”
What our panel thought
Aroma: “Notes of dark toffee, roast, sulfur, and coffee up front, as well as earthy floral notes. Raisin, plum, and prune esters become more evident as it warms. Very light molasses adds sweetness.”
Flavor: “This beer is so creamy and sweet up front, and it carries through to the finish. Lots of molasses, with burned roasty notes, toasted bread, and milk and baker’s chocolate. Dark fruit flavors of raisin, plum, prunes, and cherry are present, and a vinous character carries into the back and finish. It’s somewhat one-dimensional because the fruit esters dominate.”
Overall: “While there is some malt complexity, the fruit and molasses syrup-like flavors dominate. The body is a bit heavy. The combination of roasty malts and dark fruits makes this a pleasing drink for a cold night. A very enjoyable beer.”