And They're Off
Mirror Twin Brewing

Bringing on the derby season means also bringing out the derby treats. And with the popular derby pie decorating the party as much as fancy hats, the brewers at Mirror Twin think that its easy to have your cake and drink it too.

Rich in mocha black tones, And They're Off! might be light on foam, but its overwhelming scent of pastry shops, cake batter, pie filling and fresh baking brownies come with a twinge of classic Kentucky bourbon spice. As its decadent malt sweetness slather the early palate, the saturation of chocolate, cream, caramel and milkshake hardly gives the tastebuds a chance.

With a backdrop of molasses and espresso giving a savory component with the sweetness, the rich and robust stout is heavy with marshmallow fluff textures along with all those toasty, nutty, toffee and caramelized sweetnesses in tow. With a simmering bourbon spice closing out the session, the late taste is woodsy, warm, vanilla-like, caramelize and spiced with coconut and whisky.

Recklessly full, plush and decadent from sip to finish, the pastry stout finishes long, sweet and in full satisfaction of the sweet tooth. It may be difficult to drink, but so easy to sip.

Can pour - beer is advertised as a Derby Pie - roasted pecans, cocoa nibs, vanilla, graham cracker. Thin head that lingers, nose is pecan and booze. Flavors are well integrated and decadent, finishes with the sort of burn you'd get from a cocktail and the milk stout provides a creamy, smooth body and finish.