Year of New Beer: Chocolate Ale, Boulevard Brewing Co (Kansas City, MO)

Written By: Dion on 03/11/2019

A curveball right off the bat as this one pours much more golden amber than I was expecting, thinking the "chocolate" would be a more visual trait. Tricks on the nose as well, with a fruity aroma of apricot and golden raisin leading more subtle notes of honey, yeast, and nuts. Only with warmth does a bit of chocolate arrive, more in the form of a cocoa powder. On the tongue, this plays somewhat like a Belgian strong, with a full, bready yeast providing a base for golden fruits and earthy, slightly floral hops. Here again, traces of honey, nuts, toasted grains, and a very light chocolate develop along the middle. Finishes with hints of caramel, cocoa powder, and a subtle warming alcohol. Not nearly the chocolate presence I was expecting given the name, but a very enjoyable brew, nonetheless.