Churchill's Reserve
War Horse Brewing Company

Pours very dark brown, essentially black. Very dark highlights of black walnut can be seen under a thin, dark, chestnut and creamy head. The head quickly fades to a ring, leaving a veil and small islands on a Harp nonic glass.

The aroma opens with light whiskey that is excellently balanced by rich, chocolate syrup. Faint sourness of milk chocolate follows. The primary aroma is deep roasted malt.

Flavor follows the nose to a T. Bitterness is mild, with sweetness in check. The chocolate and roasted malt shine, while whiskey is an accent against black currants. Warmth brings out a long roasted finish.

A medium body and creamy smooth texture of plush velvet. Alcohol is more present than expected, with light heat that holds on the back of the throat. Carbonation is soft and prickly while residual sugar builds on the lips.

This is a pleasant summer Stout that pairs well with both hot and cool evenings. I am enjoying the last of a four-pack on a cool and dry, mild, summer afternoon.

16 oz can split with a friend, poured into a snifter. This beer has a lot of things going for it - dark, smoky, vanilla, chocolate, whiskey - but is ultimately too sweet and syrupy for me. Might be best served over vanilla ice cream...

Pours dark. Tan foam. Smells terrible. Tastes way better than it smells. Sweet milky body. Whiskey finish. A nice blend of whiskey and sweetness. Excellent as usual.