When it comes to Stockyards Brewing Co., they have a knack for delivering beers with character, and Fox Trotter doesn’t disappoint. This English-style brown ale is a warm, approachable brew that feels like a cozy sweater on a crisp fall evening. It’s not trying to reinvent the wheel but instead nails the essence of the style with just enough personality to stand out.
First Impressions
Pouring Fox Trotter into a glass is a delight for the eyes. The beer shows off a rich, deep brown hue with auburn highlights that catch the light beautifully. The creamy, off-white head lingers just long enough to show you it means business, leaving a bit of lacing as it recedes.
Tasting Notes
From the first sip, Fox Trotter greets you with a malty warmth. The flavor profile leans heavily on roasted nuts, caramel, and toffee, giving it a rich, dessert-like sweetness that isn’t overwhelming. As you savor it, subtle hints of cocoa and a whisper of dried fruit come through, adding complexity.
The hops play a supporting role, providing a mild bitterness that keeps the maltiness in check. There’s also a faint earthy quality, likely from traditional English hops, that grounds the beer and gives it an authentic touch.
The mouthfeel is medium-bodied and smooth, with just enough carbonation to keep it lively without distracting from the velvety texture. At 5.6% ABV, it’s incredibly drinkable…perfect for enjoying a couple in one sitting without feeling weighed down.
What Stands Out
What sets Fox Trotter apart is its balance. It’s malty but not cloying, flavorful without being overwhelming. While some brown ales can lean too far into sweetness or come across as bland, this beer hits the sweet spot. It’s versatile enough to pair with food (think roasted meats or a hearty stew) but also satisfying on its own.
Room for Improvement
If there’s one critique, it’s that Fox Trotter plays it a little safe. Fans of adventurous craft beers might find themselves wishing for a bolder hop character or an unexpected twist. That said, for an English brown ale, it’s hard to find fault with how Stockyards executed this classic style.
Final Verdict
Fox Trotter is a beer that knows exactly what it wants to be and excels at delivering it. It’s approachable, flavorful, and incredibly well-balanced. Whether you’re a seasoned craft beer enthusiast or just dipping your toes into the world of ales, this brew is a crowd-pleaser.
Ratings
Appearance: 8/10
Aroma: 8.5/10
Flavor: 9/10
Mouthfeel: 8.5/10
Overall: 8.5/10
Grab a pint of Fox Trotter next time you’re in the mood for something malty and comforting. It’s a great example of Stockyards Brewing doing what they do best: crafting beers that are both thoughtful and thoroughly enjoyable.
If you’ve tried Stockyards Fox Trotter, please share your opinions in the comments below.
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