In grabbing the four porters that I have reviewed over the last two weeks it seems that I did a pretty solid job. Not one of them was at all bad. The one that I drank first turned out to be my favorite among the group, but all of them were quite solid. Actually they almost went in order with the second one being my second favorite. The third one and this one were pretty much a coin flip with the beer today (as the only one to have something other than “Porter” in the name) getting the slight edge.
The end of the short run of porters . . .
Brewery: Highland Brewing Co. (Asheville, NC)
Name: Oatmeal Porter
Style: Robust Porter
ABV: 5.80% (via internet)
Tasting Notes: Stored in the fridge before serving in a pint glass.
Aroma: A relatively mild roasted malt aroma with a low amount of toffee-like sweetness and maybe a touch of coffee. Nice, but very subtle overall. – 7.5/12
Appearance: Dark brown though garnet when held to light. A slight tan head that is frothy, holds very well, and leaves solid lacing on the glass. Appears almost opaque though is clear with rising bubbles when held to light. – 3/3
Flavor: Good, deep roasted malt flavor up front with burnt notes that carry a bit of earthiness and some bittersweet chocolate. Solid bitterness in the middle with a bit of floral character. Well balanced overall. Finishes smoothly with a bit of dryness with the roasted malt flavor lingering nicely. – 14/20
Mouthfeel: Medium body and a moderate level of carbonation (lending maybe a slight bite). Very smooth and somewhat creamy on the palate. – 4/5
Overall Impressions: Nice beer though (again) not as strong as the same style from Anchor and Sierra Nevada I reviewed last week. I really enjoy the smooth bitterness and the finish more than anything else. Certainly could drink a few as everything is nicely balanced, but would not want more than that (maybe typical of the style for me). – 7/10
Overall: B (35.5/50)
Highland Brewing Co. - Oatmeal Porter
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