Judge’s Review: 92 Rating - Fight Milk by Pontoon Brewing

 Fight Milk by Pontoon Brewing is being evaluated as an Oatmeal Stout (Category 16B) from the 2015 BJCP guidelines.  

Roasted malts, vanilla and coffee aromas are all present. Slight alcohols evaporated quickly, and the cream in the aroma is reminiscent of an ice cream float experience. No earthy or floral hops detected. There are circus peanut candy esters, and a woodsy note that develops as it warms.

Opaque with a dark tan foamy textured head. Rousing it makes it look viscous, but not too heavy.

Roasted malt, coffee and light cream flavor are both pleasant and complex. The complexity exhibits flavors of dark caramel and chocolate bitterness mid-palate, before the medium-dry finish. There’s a woodsy, cinnamon-like flavor that gives this beer more depth. The alcohol is slightly high for a beer that should be lower in ABV.  There was no hop flavor detected (more balanced toward the roasty malt character), and the beer had a medium-bitter aftertaste.

This beer has a medium-full body and moderately high carbonation, which keeps it on point for the style. A little smooth silkiness is welcomed, making the mouthfeel very pleasant.

An exceptional beer that is not only delicious but complex with its myriad of roasted malt notes. The alcoholic warmth although not to style complements the overall flavor and palate experience.