Java Head by Troegs Brewery
Java Head by Troegs Brewery
The Java Head is the creation of Troegs Brewery, a group of eclectic brew masters from my home state of Pennsylvania. This savory brew is based off their traditional oatmeal stout recipe, but is also brewed with coffee and espresso beans.
The Java Head is only available in 22 oz. bottles. The label has an intricate design of coffee pots, pint glasses, and steam that form a skull and crossbones.
The Java Head pours out a smooth dark brown, almost black in color, with a minimal brown head. You can smell subtle hints of coffee, chocolate, with nutty undertones.
At first, I was not overly impressed with the taste. I think I was expecting a more robust coffee flavor. After spending a few more minutes with this black beauty, I really began to see this brew for what it is, a stout, and a pretty good one at that. The coffee and chocolate flavors are well balanced and not overpowering.
I found it to have a pleasant aftertaste, for having 7.5% alc/vol. Brewers often try to do too much with added ingredients and flavors. I am glad to say that Troegs did not wander down this unfortunate path.
If you are a coffee fanatic looking for an alcoholic coffee drink, you may want to look elsewhere. If you love a good oatmeal stout and want to try something different, try the Java Head. Troegs managed to put an interesting and
pleasant twist on the traditional stout.
Brewery website: http://www.troegs.com/
Themocracy
I’m yet to meet an oatmeal stout that I haven’t thoroughly enjoyed and it sounds like Java Head’s one I should keep an eye out for. Wonder if any of the UK retailers stock it?
Just tried it recently, and loved it
. Troegs has always been in my top 5. It’s not the BEST coffee stout I’ve ever tried, but certainly up there (I have to give the title to Southern Tier)
Darren T: Have you ever tried the Samuel Smith Oatmeal Stout? It’s a UK brand and absolutely delicious.
Samuel Smith’s Oatmeal Stout was the first craft beer I had growing up. Delicious!