“NEW Maple Scorched Almond, our latest Imperial Pastry Stout. And who doesn’t love a scorched almond?.”

Glassware: Snifter.

Appearance: Solid black with two fingers of light brown head emerging on top. It slowly peels off and manages a decent lace as we go.

Aroma: It’s been a long time between drinks for us and Duncan’s so we thought we’d re-break the ice with this eye catching Stout. It has one thing in spades which we absolutely go nuts () for…smoked almonds. It gives the beer, as a whole, a touch of smokiness which works beautifully. The maple side is a tad lackluster but it’s definitely there to be picked up. Nice and robust Stout base to it as well.

Flavour: Wow it’s unexpectedly smooth on entry. Tonnes of chocolate and cocoa then the light smoky notes kick into gear early in the mid. Roasted almonds, charred malts and espresso coffee are nicely countered by the gentle maple sweetness. Can’t help but taste a touch of vanilla in here too. It all lands on a sturdy and slightly burnt finish with lingering smoked almonds.

Mouthfeel: A touch too thin and slippery for our liking. There’s a slightly lifted Co2 and the 10% ABV hides away rather well.

Overall: As a whole it’s a pretty good pastry Stout. Definitely good for one though…the flavours get a little overbearing by the end. How do we say this…two slightly hesitant thumbs up?