Year of the Rat by Reformation Brewery was judged as a Spice, Herb or Vegetable (BJCP Style 30A) with a base style of Sweet Stout (13B).

The brewer uses a deft hand with the added ingredients in this Milk Stout. The added coffee, chocolate and cinnamon enhance the flavors and aromas of the roasted malts rather than dominating them making this a joy to drink. You notice this first in the aroma with roasted grains lightly seasoned by coffee and chocolate and a hint of cinnamon. It pours deep dark brown to black under a robust dark tan cap with good retention. An initial medium sweetness brings out the roasted grains, chocolate and coffee flavors. The sweetness diminishes slightly as the beer moves over the tongue and by the finish a light astringent note from the roasted grains comes forward to lightly dry the beer and create the urge for another sip. The cinnamon lies in the background and comes forward in the finish.