Year of New Beer: Dragon's Milk Reserve with Toasted Chilies, New Holland Brewing (MI)

Written By: Dion on 02/05/2016

Take one of the best, readily available barrel aged stouts and ramp it up a notch with some heat. Sounds like a winner to me, and it tastes like one, too. Rich and roasty on the nose with chocolate and coffee leading the way. Smoke and charred pepper build with warmth. On the tongue is an initial kick of spicy heat that recedes behind subtle tones of burnt sugar, vanilla, and oak. The bourbon is reserved but noticeable, outpaced slightly by the peppery bite. Even with the heat, it remains a touch sweet and creamy. Really nice beer.