Loads of dark chocolate, molasses, marshmallow, roast, and booze waft out of the glass not even pretending to hide the heft that it plans to send your way. Roast, char, and toast flavors are complimented by baker's chocolate, caramel, and a vanilla-like oakiness with a nice warming boozy character that emerges as things linger on the palate. The mouthfeel is full and slick, but the relative lack of carbonation leaves you looking for just a bit of structure.
“Drinks like a classic American pale ale. The hop character lends citrus and piney notes, Fruity Pebbles, and Trix on the nose. Tastes just like it smells with a diesely overtone, resiny grapefruit, and sweet, sticky grain. Restrained bitterness lets the malty caramel notes punch through. Just a hint of Belgian character comes through the flavor profile. Bursting with mysterious fruity flavors and a deep, foresty dankness you want to disappear into.”
Aroma is incredibly chocolate-forward, reminiscent of chocolate walnut brownies mixed with bourbon fudge and a touch of leathery sherry oxidation. Taste is incredibly nutty, with minimal roast astringency. Slightly out of balance with a sweet smooth finish.
“Initial fruity esters (pear, apple) with toasted caramel malt, low toffee. Deep toffee malt aroma almost hints at bread pudding with roasted apples. Medium alcohol warmth and a pleasant carbonic bite. Good mouthfeel helps offset the alcohol level.”
“Fruit Stripe gum collides with citrus cannabis but on the medium end of the style. Finishes lean and dry. Light hint of alcohol carries that hop profile. Well-crafted and approachable.”