Donkey Dark
Jackass Hill Brewery

my first from these guys, who seem to be hitting the ground running. its a traditional irish stout, robust in the dark roasted grains and with a yeast strain that actually has some flavor. there is great balance and pretty impressive refinement to this beer, even if its just its freshness that sets it apart. matte black and pretty full bodied looking in the glass, with a rich and frothy inch of khaki head and some nice web lacing as it drinks. aroma is heavy roast, very classic irish stout for me, with the light breadiness of the yeast and a distinctive bitter coffee note, earthy and fresh though, obviously just brewed and not imported, which i think favors a style like this. not as minimal in flavor as some can be, the grain is really bold in here, and even though the body and the alcohol are light, it feels like nutritious and full of character, almost healthy to me. some light hop bitterness at the end, but lots of bitterness from the dark grain. smooth in feel, mild carbonation but it seems right in this context. overall a traditional style made very well, and a good first impression of this place...