Overall Impression
A very dark, sweet, full-bodied, slightly roasty stout that can suggest coffee-and-cream, or sweetened espresso.
Aroma
Mild roasted grain aroma, sometimes with coffee or chocolate notes. An impression of cream-like sweetness often exists. Fruitiness can be low to moderately high. Low diacetyl optional. Low floral or earthy hop aroma optional.
Appearance
Very dark brown to black in color. Clear, if not opaque. Creamy tan to brown head.
Flavor
Dark, roasted, coffee or chocolate flavors dominate the palate. Low to moderate fruity esters. Moderate bitterness. Medium to high sweetness provides a counterpoint to the roasted character and bitterness, lasting into the finish. The balance between dark grains or malts and sweetness can vary, from quite sweet to moderately dry and somewhat roasty. Low diacetyl optional. Low floral or earthy hop flavor optional.
Mouthfeel
Medium-full to full-bodied and creamy. Low to moderate carbonation. High residual sweetness from unfermented sugars enhances the full-tasting mouthfeel.
Vital Statistics
- IBU
- 20 - 40
- SRM
- 30 - 40
- ABV
- 4% - 6%
Commercial Examples
- Bristol Beer Factory Milk Stout
- Firestone Nitro Merlin Milk Stout