Schlafly’s Oatmeal Stout is a brew that’s been quietly holding its own among stouts for years. If you’re into smooth, creamy, and roasty beers, this one’s worth a sip (or three). Here’s my take:
First Impressions
Right out of the bottle, it pours a deep, dark brown (almost black) with a solid, tan head that hangs around for a while. The foam laces the glass nicely, so you know this beer’s got some character. It’s not a show stopper in presentation, but it has that classic stout appeal that gets you excited for what’s to come.
Aromas
The nose is like walking into a cozy coffee shop…roasted coffee beans, dark chocolate, and a hint of caramel sweetness are all front and center. There’s also a subtle nuttiness and maybe a whisper of oats if you really dig in. It’s inviting but not overpowering, which sets the stage for what’s in the glass.
Tasting Notes
This is where Schlafly’s Oatmeal Stout really shines. The mouthfeel is velvety smooth. Exactly what you’d hope for in an oatmeal stout, thanks to the oats doing their job. Flavor-wise, it’s got a great balance between roasted malts and a subtle sweetness. You’ll get dark chocolate, espresso, and toasted bread, with just a touch of milk chocolate and creaminess on the finish.
The bitterness is mild but present, keeping it from veering too sweet. There’s a hint of smokiness lurking in the background that gives it some depth, but nothing too aggressive. It’s approachable, easy-drinking, and clocks in at 5.7% ABV, which is perfect for when you want a stout that’s not a boozy heavyweight.
What Works
- Drinkability: This stout is smooth as silk, making it super easy to enjoy. It’s rich, but not so heavy that it feels like a chore to finish a pint.
- Balance: The interplay of roasted malt, sweetness, and bitterness is spot-on. Nothing dominates; everything works in harmony.
- Approachability: It’s a stout that even non-stout drinkers might enjoy. It’s less intimidating than some of the more intense offerings out there.
Room for Improvement
If I’m being nitpicky, the flavor profile could use just a little more complexity. It’s solid, but it doesn’t necessarily wow you with layers. And for die-hard stout fans, it might feel a touch too “safe” compared to some more adventurous stouts on the market.
Final Thoughts
Schlafly’s Oatmeal Stout is like that friend who’s always reliable and fun to hang out with…maybe not the life of the party, but someone you can count on to make your evening better. It’s smooth, balanced, and super drinkable, which makes it a great go-to stout for just about any occasion.
Ratings
Appearance: 8/10
Aroma: 8/10
Taste: 9/10
Mouthfeel: 9/10
Overall: 8.5/10
Would I buy it again? Absolutely. It’s not going to redefine the stout world, but it’s a solid, well-crafted beer that’s perfect for cozy nights or pairing with hearty comfort food. Give it a try and thank me later!
If you’ve tried Schlafly’s Oatmeal Stout, please let us know what you thought of it in the comments section below.
Leave a Reply