Genuine, thick black appearance with a small tan head, and a little lacing – not much, but some. Alcohol and toasted malts make up the majority of the aroma.

I was pleased to find that this wasn’t mega-complex. That may sound strange to some, but I was glad that the beer really was simply a really nice, strong stout. Sometimes brewers get into the habit of trying to produce something that is way too complicated, this didn’t.

Smoothness and strength are the key descriptors here. There are a lot of burned malts which are layered on top with the alcohol and some sweetness, but that disappears quickly to give a bitter, but short finish.

Mouthfeel is good, with a little pricky carbonation to add to the experience and some warming qualities in the mouth.

You’re not going to drink much of this in a sitting, but then again it’s not designed for that.

Quality product, to the point and solid.