Samuel Adams has been known for its knack for balancing bold flavors with drinkability, and the Oaked Vanilla Porter (OVP) is no exception. This beer takes the classic porter style and elevates it with a smooth blend of oak and vanilla, giving it a distinctive character that feels comforting yet complex.
Appearance
The pour is a deep, dark brown, almost verging on black, with ruby highlights when held up to the light. It’s topped with a tan, creamy head that lingers nicely and leaves a bit of lacing as you sip. Just looking at it, you know you’re in for a rich experience.
Aroma
The nose is warm and inviting, leading with notes of roasted malt, toasted oak, and sweet vanilla. There’s a hint of dark chocolate and caramel in the background, along with a subtle nuttiness that rounds it out. The aroma strikes a nice balance. It’s sweet but not cloying, with a rich depth that makes you want to dive in.
Taste
The first sip confirms what the aroma promised. The roasted malts take center stage, delivering flavors of coffee and bittersweet chocolate. But the oaked vanilla addition is where this porter really shines. The vanilla is prominent but not overpowering, adding a creamy sweetness that balances the bitterness of the roasted malts. The oak imparts a subtle smokiness and a touch of dryness that keeps the beer from feeling too heavy. Midway through, you might notice hints of caramel and a whisper of dark fruit (maybe raisin or plum) adding layers to the profile.
Mouthfeel
OVP has a medium body that feels velvety and smooth, with just enough carbonation to keep things lively. It’s not overly thick or syrupy, which makes it surprisingly easy to drink for such a flavor packed beer.
Finish
The finish is clean and slightly dry, with the oak and roasted malt lingering the longest. There’s just a faint sweetness from the vanilla, but it doesn’t overstay its welcome.
Overall Impression
Samuel Adams OVP Oaked Vanilla Porter is a well-crafted beer that showcases the brewery’s ability to experiment without going overboard. It’s an approachable porter for those new to the style but still offers enough depth and complexity to satisfy seasoned beer lovers. The interplay of roasted malt, oak, and vanilla is a winning combination, and it’s a great choice for a cozy night or as a pairing with desserts like chocolate cake or crème brûlée.
Critique
The only real downside to OVP is that it’s only available as part of a variety pack. It’s hard to think of getting a few other Samuel Adams beers as much of a downside, though!
If there’s any downside to the beer itself, it might be that the vanilla could feel slightly too strong for purists looking for a more traditional porter experience. Additionally, while the oak is noticeable, it could be dialed up a touch more for those who enjoy a more pronounced woody character. But these are minor quibbles in an otherwise delightful beer.
Ratings
Appearance: 4.5/5
Aroma: 4.5/5
Taste: 4.5/5
Mouthfeel: 4/5
Overall: 4.5/5
If you’re a fan of porters or enjoy beers with layered, dessert-like qualities, this one is definitely worth a try. It’s not just a beer, it’s an experience in a glass.
If you’ve tried Samuel Adams Oaked Vanilla Porter, please share your thoughts about it in the comments section below.
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