Krampus Lair
Bearded Bee Brewing Company

Very dark with cola highlights and clear (SRM 33-36). The late-developing head is dark chestnut and briefly reaches one quarter inch before fading to a microscopic ring. Despite the modest head, an exceptionally fine lace forms with each sip, only to be washed away as a viscous film falls inside a Pretentious Beer Company Imperial Snifter.

Sweet Christmas spices mix with light fumes of alcohol. Chocolate syrup plays well with the roasted malt.

The flavor is much simpler and tamer than expected. Bitterness far outweighs the sweetness expected from the aroma. Roasted malt is the primary feature with black coffee more prominent than chocolate. The spice is faint and possibly cinnamon. The finish is long and moderate and filled with bitterness.

A rough, wool texture and medium to light body. Modest, prickly carbonation helps to wash away a light astringency. The alcohol, while controlled, is still a bit boozy.

This is an enjoyable Stout. I had expected more, simply because of the name and seasonal timing. Regardless, it was a pleasant sipper, which I enjoyed during a relaxed afternoon while assembling a jigsaw puzzle. (Grandma's House New Yorker)