91 Rating: Gerry Dog Stout by Big Elm Brewing

Gerry Dog Stout by Big Elm Brewing is being evaluated as an Oatmeal Stout (2015 BJCP Category 16B) due to its self-proclaimed style.

True to being a stout, you’ll be bombarded by baker’s chocolate, earthy coffee and bread. A moderate nuttiness akin to walnuts follows as does a lower level of apple from fermentation.  Pitch black in color, I’m quite confident this beer actually absorbs light and, in return, provides the drinker with a light brown head that doesn’t seem to ever dissipate. 

The flavor follows the aroma with chocolate, bread and coffee but this time the nuttiness, which presumably comes from the oats, is considerably more forward. This complements the semi-sweet to semi-dry finish and lingers far into the aftertaste. 

Gerry Dog Stout is a man’s best friend whether you’re a lover of dark beers or not. Easily approachable due to well-integrated roastiness, it’s a go-to stout -- especially when you’re tired of the cavalcade of 10 percent ABV Imperial Stouts aged in bourbon barrels.