Goose Island Oatmeal Stout
Happy Thanksgiving, by the way. I just got done doing dishes (and what a chore that was!) so I decided I needed a beer.
Continuing on with my current Goose Island kick, we’re on to something a bit more mild compared to the Bourbon County Stout I last reviewed. However, don’t confuse mild with boring.
Goose Island from Chicago has done a fantastic job with their Oatmeal Stout – this is one of the more relaxed ones I’ve had. Easy to drink and really quite enjoyable.
The beer pours an obsidian black with a tan head that dissipates pretty quickly. Goose Island recommends this beer be served in a balloon goblet/snifter, but I didn’t do that.
On the nose was a strong presence of dark malt, a touch of chocolate, and of course, oatmeal. Really very pleasant. A quick tasting brings a super smooth start to the beer, a nice level of carbonation, and a quick punch of malt, and then it dies – except for the subtle hint of bitterness that rides out the experience to the finish of rich oats mid palate.
This one is relaxed, comfortable, and very pleasant. If you’re into oatmeal stouts, you may be slightly disappointed, but if you’re newish to the style, then you will most certainly enjoy it if you’re not deathly afraid of ‘THE DARK BEERS.’ By the way, if you are, get over it. There’s a whole new world out there.
The Breakdown:
- Originality within style (17): A solid Oatmeal Stout, for certain, but maybe lacking in originality.
- Nose (15): Notes of roasted malt, oatmeal, and chocolate. Pretty much expected. Not bad.
- Mouthfeel (18): Gentle enough, yet a full-fledged oatmeal stout. Really very pleasant.
- Character (18): A full-bodied beer that comes in waves, and doesn’t disappoint.
- Overall Quality (18): Goose Island strikes again with an excellent example of a classic style.
- Total (86): A staple. I could drink cases of this stuff.
Beer: Goose Island Oatmeal Stout
ABV: 5.1%
Brewer: Goose Island – Chicago, Illinois
Availability: Year-round, most of the US
Reviewed by: Jameson Huckaba (twitter: @jamesonhuckaba)
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Hey Beer Genius,
I mean that with sincerity not sarcasm. What are some other Oatmeal stouts to try? I love this one, it has a nice middle of the road flavor level that doesn’t over power but it still robust and satisfying. I’m interested in the next level. Thoughts?
Thank you
-N
Nate – something a bit more robust would be an imperial stout. It’s going to have a bit higher alcohol content, more roasted malt goodness, and a bit heavier. Check out Great Divide’s Oak Aged Yeti – should be available in your area.