Pouring into my Guinness glass, I was obviously expecting a stouty stout. Visually, this unique brew disappointed, the head evaporated like a weak lager and held none of the weight that I so enjoy in my glass of black goodness. As far as color goes? Also a bit surprising. I was picturing a vampire, a jet black body with flashes of brilliant blood red. Instead, it seemed a bit more innocent, a bit ‘Little Red Riding Hood’ perhaps. The dark brown was cloaked with a light fire engine red around the edges. I stuck my nose in the glass and felt like I jumped into an endless pool of Twizzlers. And then I sipped. Woh. I looked at the label again, confirming that it was indeed New Glarus, a brewery. That brews beer. Yet my tongue told me otherwise. The sweetness was like a cherry soda, confirmed further by the bubbles of carbonation dancing their way across my tongue. Unfortunately, after repeated trips back to the beer-like concoction, my taste buds could taste no trace of malt, hops or yeast. I was yearning for a blend, a stiff stout with blends of dark chocolate and coffee…with a cherry on top. Instead, I got one big ol’ cherry bomb. No coffee, no chocolate, no beer. If I was simply reviewing a drink, this one would get decent marks. Its definitely tasty and unique. But, quite frankly, for a stout, it leaves a bit to be desired.

ABV: 6.5%

Grade: B-