Here's another purchase from back in the day. I actually picked this up the same time I picked up the Hen's Tooth Ale (See #71). Of the two, this was the one I was most excited about. I had noticed the bottle before, and the purple colors and labeling made me think of Willy Wonka. I didn't realize that this beer was an international offering (http://www.wellsandyoungs.co.uk) until I started to write this review..props to the UK!
The beer poured a near black color with a one finger tan head. Had an impressive look from the get-go. There was some light lacing and a thin head that remained. The aroma..wow. Sweetness from the lactose, aromas of milk and dark chocolate. I detected some roasted malt as well.
The taste was just as good. Bitter chocolate flavors, with maybe some light coffee notes. Refreshing for a beer that seems to be best enjoyed for dessert. Sweetness didn't really come through taste-wise, but I'm not complaining. Good mouthfeel, medium-light body. I could imagine that this would be much better with a heavier body. This was one of the first chocolate stouts that I've had and it doesn't disappoint. Coffee & chocolate stouts are some of my favorite types, so I might be a little biased, but I think that for this particular beer, it's well deserved.
Grade: A-
Price Paid: $3.99
