Upland Teddy Bear Kisses is a solid, full-flavored Imperial Stout that exemplifies the style quite well. The aroma has a strong chocolate malt or cocoa character backed by a slightly burnt black malt bite. Visually, this lightly carbonated brew is an opaque, deep brown/black with a tan head that is rather fleeting for the style. The flavor exhibits a solid malt base with notes of chocolate and black malt built into it. There is an interesting toasted nuttiness that complements the flavor, adding a desirable complexity. Moderate hop bitterness is evident, and the cocoa character comes through in the middle and finish. The alcohol is also quite evident and warming. While the body is thinner than most Imperial Stouts I’ve experienced, the fermentation is very clean, with a somewhat bitter and dry finish that begs you for the next sip. Overall, this is a solid brew that should age quite well.
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Teddy Bear Kisses
Description
A dark and robust beer brewed in the traditional stout method. Teddy Bear Kisses features an abundance of dark malts and high alpha hops for a powerful impact of roast, chocolate, and sweet bitterness. The lucky few who cuddle up to a warming session with Teddy Bear Kisses, can sense the velvety malt character, balanced bitter intensity, and soothing chocolate notes created by long aging on fair trade cocoa nibs. Teddy Bear Kisses will make you feel warm and happy inside, but it’s definitely not your childhood cuddle toy. Teddy Bear Kisses won a Gold Medal in the 2010 World Beer Championships.
Judges Review
Aroma:
22 / 24
Appearance:
5 / 6
Flavor:
37 / 40
Mouthfeel:
8 / 10
Overall Impression:
18 / 20