Nov 17, 2011

Sainte Source Stout

Sainte Source Stout photo

Admittedly, I don’t know jack about Quebec or it’s craft beer scene — well, besides that it’s the home of Unibroue. I do know that one of my favorite local shops tends to randomly get handfuls of great beer from that area. I’ve had several excellent products (La Buteuse Brassin Special and Le Saint-Bock Sacrilège to name a couple) over the last year or two that were brewed at the hands of a Quebec based brewery or brewpub.

Brasseurs De La Mauricie’s Sainte Source Stout is just another in the ever growing line of tasty treats from our northern neighbor. This 5.5% ABV American stout is rich and full and packed with a wonderful smoky character. As usual, I went into this beer not really all that prepared for much, but after thoroughly enjoying Sainte Source Stout, I have a feeling my expectations will be on high alert going forward when it comes to any brew coming from Quebec region.

Appearance

The brew pours black with a slowly dropping, light mocha head.

Aroma

This beer smells wonderful. A light roast, chocolate, molasses, hints of licorice, a subtle sweetness and an earthy character all come together nicely.

Taste

The smoky roast in the nose is much more assertive on the tongue, but not in a dominating or distracting fashion. The moderate char, cocoa, and sweetness coat the tongue fully as the viscous liquid travels to the back of your throat. The sweetness really comes through toward the finish in an effort to temper the smoke a bit as the mollasses (which was hidden at first) comes out more to play, as well.

Overall

I wouldn’t call this beer cloyingly sweet, but it’s got enough that I wouldn’t be able to sit down and have a go at a couple of bottles. I found this beer best suited as an after dinner dessert. It’s full on the palate, slick and chock full of great flavors. I will certainly be on the look out for more of this.

Rating: 4/5

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