Remus
Listermann Brewing Company

Stout brewed with vanilla. Part of a collaboration with the Cincinnati Zoo (proceeds benefit the zoo). This is part of a two beer release: Kris and Remus. These are the names of a single cheetah cub (Kris) and her rescue dog companion (Remus). At the release, they actually brought the cheetah to the brewery (Remus didn't come - apparently he's afraid of cars). Poured from a can into a MadTree tulip. The pour is very dark brown (nearly black) and a tiny bit of light gets through. It has a thin one-finger head of tan foam. Average retention. On the nose I get roasty notes like coffee and slightly burnt toast. I'm not sure I detect the vanilla.

Medium body with a silky feel. Strong roast up front with some faint vanilla providing a bit of balancing sweetness. I get a faint hoppy kiss near the back of the palate that gives the beer a mild, woody character. Finishes dry with a pleasant roasty character lingering behind.

Overall, I like the concept (and I love the story of Kris and Remus), but I wish Listermann had chosen to make Imperial stouts instead of standard fare. I feel that when they go Imperial they really give themselves more of an opportunity to layer different flavors together and craft something spectacular. I know this beer was largely for charity (and they should be commended for that), so I certainly understand if there is a hesitancy on their part to make that large of an investment. Nevertheless, even a small uptick in malt could have provided some sweetness to the palate and maybe some creaminess in the feel.

I did try the cuvee recommended on the cans (that is, mixing Kris and Remus together), but the beers are so similar in character my impression is the same.