In a blind tasting by BJCP trained experts, this beer rated

98

Smuttlabs The Stallion

Aroma: “Big, bold flavor on the nose, lots of sweetness. Some good vanilla and chocolate, with red grape sweetness, merlot, and cherry. Light oak and citrus. Plenty of dark fruits—raisin, plum, cherry, date, and raisin. A touch of sherry and light vinegar.”

Flavor: “Big chocolate, and the red grape and cherry sweetness hit right up front. Bright fruit, including plum, date, cherry, grape, and raisin. Malty notes of chocolate, caramel, coffee, and roast, with a little vanilla. The body is smooth, and there’s lots of intriguing complexity. Each sip introduces more flavor. Finishes with a chocolate sweetness and a medium alcohol hotness.”

Overall: “In the beginning there was lots of red wine, but as it warmed, more chocolate, plum, and dark fruit emerged. It’s a mix of chocolate and stout and fruitiness. If you let it sit, a touch of balsamic-like vinegar makes it a lot brighter. The choice of wine barrel complemented and didn’t overshadow the base beer. Very robust and interesting.”

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