90 Sinister Black Ale, 10 Barrel Brewing (OR). 5.3% ABV (3/11)
Deep brown color. Aromas of chocolate-strawberry milkshake, dark roasted nut and cherry butter with a zesty, finely carbonated fruity-yet-dry medium body and burnt coffee, roasted beet, corn and peppered jicama finish with watercress-like hops.
90 Point Burly Brown American Brown Ale, Stevens Point Brewery (WI). 5.4% ABV (3/11)
Deep copper color with a khaki head. Inviting aromas of milk chocolate bar, roasted nuts and faint latte with a crisp, round fruity-yet-dry medium body and a lively, peppercorn, honey, roasted root vegetable and frisée-like hop finish. Very tasty and satisfying.
89 Point 2012 Black Ale, Stevens Point Brewery (WI). 5.4% ABV (3/11)
Brown black color. Aromas and flavors of Fig Newton and milk chocolate-covered apricot with a supple, frothy dry-yet-fruity medium body and smooth jicama and parsley-like hop finish.
88 Rahr’s Ugly Pug, Rahr & Sons Brewing Co. (TX). 4.9% ABV (3/11)
Deep russet mahogany color. Rich roasted nut, smoked meat, marmalade and chocolate aromas and flavors with a supple, frothy medium-to-full body and a crisp, peppercorn and grassy hop finish.