Deschutes Brewery, one of the pioneers of craft beer in the Pacific Northwest (Bend, OR) has been brewing its renowned Obsidian Stout for decades. This beer, named after the volcanic glass found in Oregon’s Cascade Mountains, is a staple in the stout category. It consistently delivers a rich and satisfying experience, making it a favorite for dark beer enthusiasts.
Appearance (4.5/5)
Obsidian Stout pours an impenetrable deep black with a thick, tan head that lingers nicely. The foam clings to the glass, leaving a lovely lacing as you sip. It looks every bit as robust as you’d expect from a well crafted American stout.
Aroma (4.3/5)
The aroma is roasty and inviting, with notes of dark chocolate, espresso, and caramelized sugar. Hints of black licorice and subtle earthy hops add complexity, while a touch of smokiness rounds out the bouquet. It’s a well balanced nose, avoiding the excessive sweetness that some stouts lean into.
Taste (4.7/5)
The first sip of Obsidian Stout delivers bold roasted malt flavors, with espresso, cocoa, and a touch of toffee taking center stage. Unlike some heavier stouts, this one isn’t overly sweet; instead, it has a dry, bitter backbone reminiscent of a well pulled shot of espresso. Midway through, a pleasant nuttiness emerges, followed by a surprising but welcome hop bite that keeps things lively. Deschutes doesn’t shy away from using hops in its dark beers, and Obsidian Stout benefits from this added dimension.
Mouthfeel (4.2/5)
This stout strikes a medium to full body with a smooth, slightly creamy texture. The carbonation is moderate, providing just enough lift to prevent the beer from feeling heavy. The finish is long and dry, with lingering roasted malt and a touch of dark fruit.
Overall Impression (4.6/5)
Deschutes Obsidian Stout is a fantastic example of an American stout…bold yet balanced, complex yet highly drinkable. The roast-forward character is complemented by just the right amount of bitterness from the careful hop selection (Northern Brewer, Cascade, and Tettnang), making it a standout in its category. While some might prefer a silkier, sweeter stout, this one stays true to a more traditional, robust style with excellent depth and drinkability.
Final Rating: 4.5/5
For fans of roasty, dry stouts with a touch of hoppy character, Obsidian Stout is definitely worth trying. It’s a benchmark for American craft stouts and a great introduction to Deschutes’ mastery of dark beers. Whether enjoyed on a chilly night or paired with a rich dessert, it remains one of the most reliable and satisfying stouts on the market.
If you’ve tried Deschtes’ Obsidian Stout, please share your thoughts about it in the comments section below.
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