Judge's Review: 89 Rating - Banded Oak Porter by Banded Oak Brewing

Banded Oak Porter by Banded Oak Brewing is being evaluated as a American Porter (2015 BJCP Category 20A). It poured a luscious, dark brown color with deep garnet highlights underneath a persistent, tan head.

The roast-forward nose features strong earthy coffee and bittersweet chocolate alongside moderate biscuit and hints of caramel. The faint earthy hops help to reinforce the roasted malt. No fruity esters were perceived.

The flavor follows closely to the aroma with upfront coffee, chocolate, biscuit, and toffee with supportive moderate bitterness. The clean fermentation coupled with the dry finish allows the drinker to easily go back for another sip. Quite quaffable. However, the quite forward roasted malt is slightly too tannic.

Overall, this American porter is a solid offering. If you’re looking for intensely roasted beers without the alcohol or sweetness that can result from certain imperial stouts then this beer is the right one for you.