In the morning, there's nothing like a hot, steaming cup of coffee to start your day. At least that's the case for me. I just love the smell of fresh coffee brewing, and I simply can't start my day without a couple cups of the hot, steamy dark liquid. I like my coffee strong and roasty, and with lots of flavor too.

Roasty, flavorful beer in the evening can be just as satisfying as coffee in the morning, too. That should not surprise, either, since the two can be quite similar. Stouts and porters are made with roasted barley to impart color and flavor; roasted coffee beans do the same for your morning cup of Joe.

Sometimes, I like to enjoy beer and coffee at the same time. I don't need to do any messy mixing, though; the brewer has already done that for me. Case in point: Bell's Java Stout, a rich, roasty stout of formidable character brewed with coffee. Here's how Bell's describes their stout:

"The satisfying elements of both stout and coffee come together in this full-bodied treat. A marriage of Sumatra's best with rich chocolate and roasted malt provides for a truly enlightening beer."

I can see that. I loved the hell out of this beer, and the only downside I could see was the price ($14.99 a six pack).

Bell's Java Stout pours to a jet black color with a thick creamy head of caramel colored foam and a powerful nose of fresh roasted coffee that's sure to open your eyes and wake up your palate. The beer's palate is smooth and silky, a little oily even in texture, just like a freshly brewed cup of coffee. Bell's Java Stout is redolent with powerful espresso notes but also packs hints of licorice, chocolate, and chicory, too. The beer finishes with more of a roasty bitterness than a hoppy one, but there are some pronounced grassy hop notes as well.

Despite it's big coffee and roasted barley character, Bell's Java Stout is surprisingly drinkable. That could be a bit dangerous, since it's about half again as strong as most beers at 7.5% alcohol by volume. Sure doesn't seem it, though. Bell's Java Stout is a big, bold, delicious blend of coffee and beer, but you knew that would happen: hey, this is a Bell's beer after all. Sinful with a slice of creamy cheesecake slathered with blueberry sauce.



Home