Vlad, Cask Conditioned With Cocoa And Hazelnuts
Royal Docks Brewing Company

My first beer that I am purchasing in Ohio that's over 12% ABV since the new law went into effect just over 2 weeks ago eliminating the 12% AVB cap in beer here on Ohio. Served on-tap to me in a standard pint glass, this beer draws a very dark almost brown color that's not interested in letting in any light whatsoever. Has a very tan/light brown, almost cocoa colored head that's about an inch thick when first drawn that settles to a thick ring lining the inside of the glass, some bits of a film layer of surface foam, and excellent lacing. Roasted caramel and chocolate malt notes give way to some vanilla and oak. The taste is pretty much the same, with very roasted caramel and chocolate malt notes along with vanilla and oak notes that balance out the heavy roasted was that's present. No discernible hop presence as far as my palate is concerned. Has an overall smooth, somewhat creamy and frothy, slightly crisp mouthfeel with moderate carbonation. Has a rather dry aftertaste. Very easy to drink for a beer of this AVB %. A very good beer all around.

Eric

Recent visit to the NW Canton brewery, opened in September 2015.

Black, opaque elixir, thin brown head which quickly settles to foam at the rim.

Wonderful flavors waft with first sniff: sweet chocolate, caramel, roasted malt and lightly toasted hazelnuts.

Smooth chocolate starts with a nicely roasted, charred malt. There is a subtle, pervasive nuttiness which mingles with a light brown sugar on the back end.

The cask conditioning provides a nice mellow and smooth mouthfeel, allowing the enhancement of the flavors. The alcohol is almost nonexistent.

Well done cask conditioned RIS. The addition of the cocoa and hazelnuts really bring this brew to the next level.