Aroma: “Vanilla and caramel are the first impression, with strong cherry and stone-fruit esters and a holiday spice undertone that might be cinnamon. Mild cocoa and chocolate malt, with rice that lends some creaminess. At first it was a bit odd, but the blend reminded me of rice pudding. Definitely not a ‘macho’ stout nose, with so much sweetness on hand.”

Flavor: “Rather sweet, verging on cloying, and enhanced by warming holiday spices. Big cherry esters. Sweet cocoa, vanilla, roast coffee, and light heat from the cinnamon. Mild alcohol warmth and spiciness, complemented by the roastiness. It’s like a melted chocolate candy bar, with the gentle sweetness of rice pudding.”

Overall: “What a fun beer. Aside from the initial oddness on the nose, I really liked it all around. It’s quite sweet, which hides the alcohol well, and is probably well-suited to those who like sweeter beers. It’s like rice pudding with cinnamon and some dark chocolate shavings on top.”