Neapolitan Milk Stout

Sometimes a beer comes along that completely floors you. Not because it’s a 15% ABV Barrel-Aged Imperial Stout (although, of course, that can happen too), but because everything about it is expertly executed.

Such was the case with Saugatuck Brewing Company’s Neapolitan Milk Stout. While they’ve recently been in the news for facetiously naming a beer ‘Murica in response to Budweiser’s cringe-inducing renaming of its flagship brand, Neapolitan Milk Stout is an annual, seasonal release from the Douglas, Michigan-based brewery.

Its label artwork is eye-catching and sleek, proudly displaying its inspiration on its sleeve. Of course, if the flavors and aromas didn’t follow through, this would all be for naught, but upon first whiff, the only thing I could think of was that I wanted to dump this beer… into a big bowl Neapolitan Ice Cream!

The strawberry aromas and flavors were apparent from the start, and the chocolate malts and added lactose provided the chocolate and vanilla aspects, respectively. This beer was structured flawlessly, and I wish I could have one on hand whenever I want Neapolitan Ice Cream (which is pretty frequently I’m afraid).

In the end, this is a top-shelf Milk Stout from one of the best beer states in America.

– Chris Guest