Hawks & Doves
Autodidact Beer

 

On draught at the brewery. Served in a Willi Becher glass. It pours a deep mahogany color. The frothy, light mocha head dissipated quickly leaving minimal lacing. It has a nice nose featuring roasted malt, freshly-brewed coffee, tobacco smoke, oatmeal, and a whiff of dark fruit - particularly as it warms. The taste is dry, earthy, and roasty. The oatmeal is present but it's not dominant. The Stout is fairly acidic and finishes with a touch of hoppy bitterness. Its mouth feel is creamy with mild carbonation and it's very drinkable given its modest 5% ABV. Overall, Hawks & Doves is a well-crafted Oatmeal Stout. It's substantive enough to accompany a burger or grilled sausage but lite enough for casual drinking. It's the first stout offering from Autodidact and although Oatmeal Stout is not a favorite style for me, I'm looking forward to the next stout from this local brewery.