As Fate Must
Seven Story Brewing

This is nearly black, at best, very dark brown with dark copper highlights (SRM 33-36). A big, creamy head starts at about 1.5 inches and dark khaki. As the head settles over a few minutes, it turns much lighter, almost almond. The head ultimately settles to a thin blanket, leaving spotty lace and no film on a PBGC Imperial snifter.

Roasted malt is moderately strong, giving way to chocolate, rather than malt. Bittersweet and light licorice contend with vanilla. Black currants are faint, and perhaps there is some nutmeg. Aside from the roast, these are all surprisingly subtle, especially, as warmth transitions the beer to be more robust in its roastiness.

The flavor, similar to the nose, is subtle. Again, roast moves towards chocolate, though not as far as the nose had. Light bitterness is balanced by sweetness. The black currants and vanilla seem to have left the licorice behind. The finish is mild and short. Unfortunately, warmth brings out off flavors and an unpleasant astringency.

The body is slick, full, and smooth. Alcohol is below expectations. Carbonation is soft.

While Seven Story identifies this as a Pastry Stout, I beg to differ, if only partly because of how mild it is. Rather, I would consider this a Sweet Stout, enjoyable on a cold February afternoon before the Super Bowl. Like the Chiefs, this one let me down.