Milkstachio

Hop Butcher’s Milkstachio Milk Stout brewed with cacao nibs and natural pistachio flavor has a pretty cool name. Technically I would call this a BJCP category 30A; Spice, Herb or Vegetable Beer, but I could also make an argument for Category 30C; Winter Seasonal Beer because the spicing just screamed "holiday" at me.

 The aroma started out moderately malty with a mix of bread, chocolate, nuttiness and light coffee. There was no hop aroma to note. There were some very light grainy tones and light notes of roast. I also perceived a slight note of tobacco in the nose.

This was a deep brown beer, nearing black, and appeared opaque. The low, light tan head fell to a skim of foam that was composed of fine bubbles. The head retention was low. 

Upon the first taste there was medium-high maltiness that was a blend of biscuit, chocolate and coffee. The coffee character came across more like flavored coffee, like one of those light, nutty, holiday blends. The smooth, rounded flavors finished with a slightly dusty huskiness at the finish. The beer was medium-sweet and had a light note of roast at the back. Bitterness was moderate.

Medium body and medium carbonation helped to showcase a medium creaminess. There was just a slight hint of grainy astringency at the finish.

This was an enjoyable pint and would be great for fans of flavored holiday coffees. It had a gentle roastiness blended with cocoa, nuttiness and coffee tones for a pleasant drinking experience.