Beer Pick of the Week - Old No. 38 Stout
Irish Dry Stout
North Coast Brewing Company
Fort Bragg, CA
5.6% ABV
This lip-smacking stout is a bit sweeter than its more famous cousin from Ireland, but I’m not one to dock for style points. Caramelized sugar, licorice, vanilla, roasted grains, and chocolate are all evident in the strong, fresh aroma. Chocolate malt and toffee sweetness is nicely balanced with a smoky, earthy cocoa and coffee bitterness. The fruity, grassy esters of the hops emerge in the smooth finish, and it is easy drinking enough to have two or three. Watch out Arthur Guinness.