Oil Money
District 96 Beer Factory

A very solid beer in a rather underrated style from a brewer a rather pretty good beers. It seems hard to do a stout justice these days unless there's a barrel involved, but this beer isn't necessarily going for that'it' factor rather it just 'is'. And it is very enjoyable like something Founder's or GLBC might put out for the masses to enjoy as it falls somewhere in between Ohio City and Breakfast Stout. Anyhow, this beer itself tastes like an espresso dusted truffle...generic sounding but sophisticated enough especially, if say, it was purchased from a local chocolatier. It's not too sweet at first sip, but then there's a sweeter candy bar inner nougat that brings me back to Turtles caramel nut clusters. I also detect a little bit of pine sap bitterness, and it smells like burning maple wood which we all know what oil money is made of. A bit sticky on the lips, but with a chicory roast malt body; it's a better, alcoholic version of a Manhattan Special.

 

 

This is such an exemplary stout. Lovely deep dark color, almost black, and thick foam. Complex, with many nice sub-flavors, chocolate, yeasty or cheesy, burnt grain. Good feel in the mouth, and just the right amount of bitterness, not excessive. Drink this by itself, or with food.

 

 

Poured from fresh crowler into District 96 tulip glass. It pours jet black with a huge, fluffy, creamy light khaki head and lacing that dissipated very slowly and lasted through the pour. The nose features cocoa, roasted malt, light caramel, nuts, and whiffs of tobacco and char. As the glass warms, there are also notes of raisin. The taste is complex and pleasing: In addition to the roasted malt, chocolate, and nuts, there is sour coffee and hints of molasses and anise. It finishes with a slightly bitter char. I didn't taste any of the dark fruit I smelled. Overall, the tastes blend really well. This stout is medium-bodied and fairly creamy although not quite as viscous and chewy as I'd hoped. The carbonation is mild and it drinks easily at 6.8% ABV. Overall, Oil Money is well-conceived and crafted. It would work well paired with a hearty meal or for casual drinking with friends. Let it warm to nearly room temperature to allow the tastes to come alive.