The Other One
Magnolia Pub & Brewery

Had this on tap during Strong Beer Month 2009. According to the bartender this is a strong version of their Cole Porter, brewed with 10lbs of Blue Bottle Coffee. The menu says IBUs clock in at 30.

A - The beer poured a dark brown color with a thin, medium tan colored head that didn't stand up well. Slight viscosity was visible upon swirling.

S - Strong, french-pressed coffee was one of the dominant aromas coming from my glass. Picked up on some medium-dark chocolate and a roasty malt character, too. A slight earthy hop aroma added an interesting complexity.

T - Coffee, coffee, coffee. I used to be an everyday espresso drink and am now on a once a week sort of intake. It was pleasant to have such a strong coffee flavor in the beer. Again, it was more a french press or strong brewed coffee vs. espresso or coffee with creme. Very slight charcoal note. Medium finish left a lingering coffee/chocolate flavor and bitterness was in the moderate-low level.

M - Medium-full bodied, moderate low carbonation. Very smooth.

D - Dangerously drinkable. Not only did the beer taste great, it lacked an alcoholic punch, instead packing an incredible smoothness given the strength of the beer. I would easily order a second pint, maybe even a third, especially given these cool/wet SF winters. Hope they bring this back next year!