BrewDog Cocoa Psycho
I’ve had some tasty stouts through the years from BrewDog. Whether it’s their tremendous Paradox series, the massive Tokyo or the even more standard fare, Old World Russian Imperial Stout, each has offered sanctuary in their deep, dark depths. Cocoa Psycho (brewed with cocoa and vanilla) is no different.
Now, when it comes to vanilla in a beer, I prefer it to be of a low to moderate level — too much of it just doesn’t work for me. When I purchased this bottle of Cocoa Pyscho (batch 281), I assumed it would be rather decadent and more desert-like. Instead, I was presented with something that carried more earthy character along with a smooth richness than I expected. The 10% ABV alcohol presence was hidden nicely and the beer just drank well. It’s not their best stout by any means, but it’s certainly not their wors.
Appearance
The brew pours like really old, used motor oil — thick, black and goopy. It’s also got one of the darkest heads I’ve seen on a stout of this style.
Aroma
Espresso, cocoa, an earthy trait, soft roast and grain fill the nose while hints of vanilla tease lightly in the background.
Taste
Cocoa Psycho leads in with a good amount of smooth coffee, earthy cocoa and roasty notes. It’s full bodied with a light bitterness that lasts through to the relatively drying finish. I don’t get much vanilla on the tongue — maybe late in the finish. The higher alcohol content is hidden well, resulting in a soft warmth in the chest.
Overall
This is a pretty darn good beer. There’s nothing unique or outstanding about it to separate it from its peers, but it just drinks nicely. It’s full bodied and quite tasty — not too chocolatey and, thankfully, not at all vanilla-y. I could go for another one of these in the future.
Rating: 4/5
