Today I find myself sampling a stout in the most odd place, what’s more odd is that this stout is quite amazing. Lion Stout (8% ALC.) of Sri Lanka is the beer I am referring to.

The Lion brewery was started in the mid-1800’s in response to the demand of colonial tea growers in the region. Lion has gone on to win several gold medals in the international beer arena, and even though it is brewed on the other side of the planet is quite easy to find in many beer stores with extensive international selections.

The beer poured really well. Its color was a rich black which developed a creamy head with even bubbles that lasted quite a while. The aroma of the brew was a complex medley ranging from coco and roasted coffee to caramel and a slightly oliveish hints that I could not put my finger on. As I drank the sent of roasted coffee intensified and a great whiff comes from the bottom of the glass as I tipped it to drink.

The flavor was quite great too. The beer had a light body almost more resembling a dark lager than a Gunnies, but the flavors filled in where the body was lacking. With deep undertones of roasted coffee and subtle hints of toffee that were almost unrecognizable but intensified as they lingered in my cheeks long after I swallowed the first sip.

The beer however did not drink like a strong stout which was a definite disappointment. The light body really failed to round out what could have been a delightfully rich beer.

Lion is great on a cold night right at room temperature. I think this beer to hit its full potential needs first be put n a nitro tap, and second need to mixed 50/50 with Guinness to get that rich creamy body which the beer lacks.

All and all I would say this beer is quite good give it a try it’s only $2.99 for a bomber bottle, quite the deal for such a good beer. If you like Moose Droll you’ll love this beer.