Brew Review: Hitachino Nest Espresso Stout

I’ve been hearing all this talk about Espresso Stouts lately, so I decided to give them a shot…of espresso! Get it? Isn’t that funny? Shot, espresso…forget it.

If you’re into “desert” beers, Hitachino Nest Espresso Stout will be right up your alley. As for me, the brew left my stomach feeling…bloated. I’m a dude. Dudes are not supposed to say words like “bloated,” but there I was, belly filled with creamy suds and regret.

I think I crapped about 10 minutes after drinking my first (but not last) Espresso Stout. Is my metabolism to blame, or does this concoction take richness to a new level nobody asked for?

Keep in mind that I usually fare well with stouts. I can admire the Espresso Stout’s dark chocolate color and roasted malt flavor, but I’d rather pound a few Sam Adams Cream Stout if I’m going that route. Beer connoisseurs may scoff, but that’s the way I feel.

I’ve also heard claims that Espresso Stouts are light and refreshing; maybe they usually are. All I know is that my experience with them wasn’t light or refreshing. Heavy and sh*t-inducing? Absolutely.

Maybe I had a bad batch…or four. Or maybe I shouldn’t have drank more than one desert beer. It’s probably my fault. Give them a shot…!

Hitachino Nest Espresso Stout stats:

Tastes like: chocolate malt, with heavy emphasis on espresso

Smells like: strong coffee

Alcohol content: 7.5 percent; be careful chugging these bad boys…