Judge Roy Bean was real, this much is known. Born in Kentucky in 1825, he eventually made his way to Texas and became a justice of the peace. He also ran a saloon, hence his relevance to beer. Judge Roy Bean Coffee Stout from the Fairhope Brewing Company of Fairhope, Alabama is named for him, indirectly. It’s really named for the local landmark named after the judge, a music venue that was built in the 40s and burned down in the aughts.

I met Judge Roy Bean at my local Taco Mac when they had a “tap takeover” by Fairhope to celebrate the introduction of their beers to Georgia. A tap takeover at Taco Mac is a relative thing, and with 100 taps, not all of them are getting taken over. Fairhope got 4, which is a nice way to try them I think. I have been impressed with their beer so far.

Here’s what Fairhope says about Judge Roy Bean on their website:

Judge Roy Bean is an American stout brewed in collaboration with our good friends at Fairhope Roasting Company, whose House Blend is cold-brewed and added to this already decadent brew. This beer is our tribute to the beloved Eastern Shore landmark, and much like the old days at the Bean, we think you'll love spending your holiday with Judge Roy Bean.  

Fairhope Judge Roy Bean Coffee Stout has an alcohol content of 5% by volume and I paid just $5 for a 20-ounce mug. It runs $9.99 a six-pack at Total Wine. It seems to have existed in previous incarnations as a vanilla milk stout. It is a year-round release from Fairhope.

My mug of Fairhope Judge Roy Bean Coffee Stout arrived jet black in color with  rich chocolate and chicory in the nose. Taking a sip I got deep roasted notes and a smooth malty body, bittersweet dark chocolate, espresso, and in the finish more bitter roasty coffee and a grassy hop bite.

Judge Roy Bean Coffee Stout is my first beer from Fairhope. It won't be my last.

Update 4/8/2018: Bottled Judge Roy Bean pours to a jet black color with an intense roasted coffee nose. Intense roast in the palate with sour coffee grind notes. Amazing! Permeated with coffee goodness, this is one fantastic beer.

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