Judge’s Review: 95 Rating – Black Lotus by First State Brewing Co.

Coffee Beer | Seasonal | USA

By Joseph Formanek

Judges Rating: 95.00
Aroma: 23.00
Appearance: 6.00
Flavor: 38.00
Mouthfeel: 9.00
Overall Impression: 19.00

Black Lotus Coffee Stout is a particularly well crafted version of a sweetened coffee-spiced stout. The presentation comes off like an alcoholic Cafe Mocha, which can be appreciated by a coffee drinker such as myself! This brew is being judged as a Category 30D Specialty Spiced Beer with a Category 16A Sweet Stout with coffee and cocoa spicing. 
This deep black opaque brew has a rich roasted coffee aroma with a hint of cocoa up front, followed by a noticeable level of roast barley and black malt. There are also a touch of sweet aromatics that come through. Quite attractive!  The solid tan-colored small bubble head is substantial with good retention. The clarity, when viewed through the thin part of the class, is excellent.
The flavor presentation is very smooth, with very evident fresh coffee notes up front complemented by black malt, roast barley and cocoa notes. The lactose level used delivers a mild level of sweetness which is at proper levels for the overall character of this brew. The middle and finish retain the same flavor characteristics, delivering a smooth rich Cafe Mocha-like overall flavor. The body is medium with an appropriate mouthfeel for the style. 
Black Lotus is a wonderful interpretation of a coffee-type stout style. The brew is very well crafted, with all the parts coming together synergistically to deliver a delicious treat. Definitely search this one out if you are a coffee stout aficionado. You will not go wrong. Cheers and Enjoy!