I’ve only had a couple of Bison’s products, and I’ve only had a few Chocolate Stouts.  However, I can say that Bison’s Chocolate Stout is my favorite one in the category.  Actually, I have to qualify that statement.  I really love Young’s Double Chocolate Stout on tap.  I like it in the bottle, too.  So, when I say that Bison is my favorite Chocolate Stout, I really mean it’s my favorite one in the bottle (I’ve not had it on tap yet).  Being that I’m going to move to California where the beer is made, I’ll get a chance to try it on tap.  Here are my thoughts about it in the bottle.

The beer had a deep black, active body and a thick, creamy, foamy head that retained well.  Looking at the beer in the glass, there was no doubt that it was a stout.

A very slight metallic aroma was present on the nose, but it was overcome by the rich chocolate, dark roasted grains and tinge of sweetness.  Beyond this, the beer didn’t have a ton going with aromas.  I do want to note that there was a coffee quality present as well.  

When I sipped this beer, I was reminded why I like it so much.  There was a ton of chocolate and roast in the body that could immediately be perceived.  I felt that it had far more chocolate tastes than Young’s does in the bottle.  A velvety smoothness made the beer easy to drink, yet it was still powerful in flavor.  As the interplay between the chocolate and coffee taste continued, the beer became a joy to drink.  Slight acidic qualities gave this beer a juicy feel.  

As I said, I consider this a great chocolate stout, but the beer can also hold its own among stouts in general. Pick a bottle or bottles up and try this one.

Mike’s Rating:

Overall Satisfaction: ★★★★¼ 

Among other Chocolate Stouts: ★★★★¾ 

 

Among other Stouts ★★★★☆