Wake the Firk Up!
ManaFirkin Brewing Company

 

Pint pour on draught at the brewery. It pours a deep mahogany color with cola hues at the bottom of the glass. Unfortunately there was virtually no head or lacing. The smell is a huge improvement over the appearance with lots of burnt coffee, leather, tobacco smoke, and char. As it warms in the glass I also detect notes of caramel and chocolate. The taste follows the nose but there is a strong oatmeal presence up front along with baker's chocolate. In the background there are burnt coffee grounds, nuts, and earthy char. As it warms the flavor further develops with hints of anise, dark fruit, and cola. It finishes with strong bitterness. The mouth feel is moderately creamy with appropriate carbonation and the 7.8% ABV gives it good substance. Overall, Wake the Firk UP! is pleasant drinking with the right attributes but it's not a memorable stout.