This is as close to perfect as I have ever tasted, though I admit I have a stout bias. I was warned about the 13% ABV before I ordered (laughs), but I was not deterred. When the malty aroma wafted up, my hopes arose. It poured black, with a dense tan head, that diminished, but never quite went away. Then that first sip, and I was in heaven. There is something in there, and I still don’t know what it is, but the beer has hints of coffee roastiness, thought they claim no coffee is used. So smooth front to back, no bitter aftertaste, just pleasure all the way down, till it warms in your stomach. And the clincher.... only $2.00 at happy hour, and $2.50 regular times. But that is for a smaller glass, not the pints their other beers come in. Still, at 13%, its awesome. If you are ever in Portland, look for this place, and this extraordinary stout.

Glad it didn't cause a melt down for me. Rather was a refreshing blast on a rainy night. Dry and good sipping fare.

Very dark with islands of brown head. Way chocolatey aroma with a strong burnt nut character. Also touches of soy, coffee, bubblegum, and hop resin. Full body with light carbonation. Somewhat sweet with a roasty and quite bitter finish. Pretty good stuff with a unique aroma and flavor.

Dense opaque black appearance, good head formation. Cookie dough and burnt fruit bread aroma. Smooth palate, sweetish burnt bread. Finishes fruity and chocolaty, very well balanced alcohol.

A classically good stout. Lots of flavor and complexity, and the alcohol remains hidden until you're almost done with the glass. Definately a good find, I can't wait to try Tugboat's other beers. I will have this again, maybe give it a higher rating. Great beer though.