This Winter Seasonal Beer presents as a comforting, dessert-forward interpretation of a spiced Export Stout. The nitro pour creates a lush, cascading visual leading to a creamy mouthfeel that carries the aromatic intensity of warm cinnamon and rich vanilla. The malt base offers deep notes of baker’s chocolate and toasted grains, providing a sturdy foundation for the spicy and sweet adjuncts. Despite its approachable 5% ABV, the beer delivers a full-bodied experience reminiscent of holiday pastries. The spices are expertly integrated, ensuring the vanilla’s sweetness and cinnamon’s earthy warmth complement the roasted character without overwhelming the clean, dark malt finish.
Appearance.Very dark brown to nearly black (SRM 35-40). The nitrogenated pour produces a thick, persistent, creamy tan head with exceptionally fine bubbles and dense lacing. Opaque.
Aroma.Moderate to high intensity. Prominent scents of sweet vanilla bean and spicy, woody cinnamon dominate the foreground. Beneath the spices lies a rich malt profile featuring milk chocolate, roasted coffee, and subtle caramel. Hop aroma is non-existent, and yeast esters are neutral.
Taste.Initial impression is a blend of creamy vanilla and toasted malt. The middle palate reveals bittersweet chocolate and a soft, earthy cinnamon warmth. Malt sweetness is balanced by a moderate roasted bitterness rather than hop character. The finish is smooth and lingering, with a clean aftertaste of cocoa and spice.
Mouthfeel.Medium-full body with a remarkably smooth, velvety creaminess due to the nitro conditioning. Carbonation is low to very low. Alcohol warmth is negligible. No astringency from spices or roasted malts.