First sip is pretty watery, but it has definite carbonation, chocolate, smoke, oats, and even a few nuts. All of it is immersed in that water, but it's more like seltzer water with the carbonation doing its thing. The many flavors, therefore, are more like little people in a small log-shaped car in a giant water ride at the amusement park; these things are having fun, but water is the main ingredient.
Tip-in is carbonation burn and smoke. The oats and even a bit of chocolate are evident right here off the bat, and they are certainly welcome enough. The middle brings a dramatic cessation of flavors. Instead, the carbonation increases a bit while the water just cleans off the palate in expectation of a more more flavorful finish. For its part, the finish is heavy oak, a bit of coffee, and bitterness from the few hops there are.
Bottom Line: Better than your average lager, but a good porter or stout might be a bit more enjoyable.
3.25/5