As I write this (though most likely not as you read this), I have porter on my mind. Specifically, I was thinking of Catamount Porter, an old favorite of mine that sadly is no longer brewed. Perhaps because porter was on my mind, I delved into the depths of my dedicated beer refrigerator and came up with one: Scuttlebutt Porter in a 22-ounce bomber bottle. Call it power of suggestion, but this one actually reminds me of Catamount Porter, which believe it or not I can still taste in my mind’s palate.
Anyway, I wanted porter, and I can now tell you most assuredly that Scuttlebutt Porter definitely satisfied my porter cravings. This is one delightful beer sold here in Georgia exclusively at Total Wine locations. The brewery, Scuttlebutt Brewing of Everett, Washington, is on the small side, but as we all know it is often such small concerns that give us some of the very best beers.
The Scuttlebutt website is on the minimalist side, but they do say that their porter is hopped with Cascades, has 20 IBUs and 5.8% alcohol by volume. It’s sold at Total Wine in 22-ounce bomber bottles, and I found the price quite reasonable at $4.49.
Scuttlebutt Porter pours to a light black (meaning not completely opaque) color with a creamy tan head formation and a light chocolate and licorice nose. Upon sipping, I get a medium bodied beer with light roasty notes, bittersweet chocolate, plenty of licorice, and a bit of herbal hops in the finish. Roast coffee also emerges more fully in the finish, too, and makes for a delightful sipping experience. The roasty flavors here make this a robust porter for me, although in body it’s not quite as big as say, Edmund Fitzgerald Porter. Still, this one is a sheer delight and an easy drinking porter as well, moderate in alcohol yet bold in flavor. Perfect for everyday drinking, and the price makes that a bit more possible as well.
And remember, try a new beer today, and drink outside the box.
*Pricing data accurate at time of review or latest update. For reference only, based on actual price paid by reviewer.
(B)=Bottled
(D)=Draft