Beer Review: Scotty Karate

Reviewing the Scotty Karate from Dark Horse Brewing Company.
Score: 94

2011 vintage bottle served in an over-sized wine goblet.

Appearance: Pours a deep copper reddish brown. Opaque with blood-red highlights at the bottom. Slightly-below average lacing. Pours one finger of head, which settles into a foggy layer on top of the beer -- not unlike a Scottish marsh! 4/5

Smell: Caramel maltiness upfront. Red grape sweetness. Strong and delightful vanilla extract aromas -- almost dessert-like, though I cannot put my finger on the specific dessert (maybe cookies?). Some figs and raisins. Dark fruit. A little banana bread and smokiness. Definitely smelling some tiramisu too. 4.5/5

Taste: Vanilla extract and caramel sweetness. Brown sugar. Very malty, and creamy. Dark fruits, figs and raisin sweetness on the mid-palate. A little spicy grain. No hoppy bitterness, and absolutely no alcohol presence -- which is surprising given the 9.75% ABV! 4.5/5

Mouthfeel: Medium bodied, minimal carbonation. Very smooth, a little creamy. Dry, slightly sweet finish. 4/5

Overall: One of the better Scotch Ales I have had the pleasure to drink; this one is totally on par with Founders Dirty Bastard. The high ABV is completely hidden, which makes this a dangerously drinkable beer!

Recommendation: This is a great, complexly flavored beer that seasoned beer lovers will enjoy. A great starting point for casual beer drinkers looking to try craft beers.

Pairings: Freshly made chocolate chip cookies.

Cost: $7.99 for a four pack.