The Swill: South Rim Oatmeal Stout
The Still: Grand Canyon Brewing Company
Williams, Arizona
http://www.grandcanyonbrewingco.com
The Drill: Oatmeal Stout, 64oz growler, 5.6% ABV
The Spill: A subtle, mellow stout, the oatmeal version often presents itself as a silky sweet cousin to the ordinarily bitter dark ale. The mouthfeel is somewhat thicker than an Irish stout, but plenty lighter than an Imperial. This one presents a smooth, mocha feel and taste that's a little weak on the coffee side. Goes nicely with a rich vanilla bean or butter rum ice cream, float style. No, really. Drop a scoop in your mug and see for yourself.
Says Bill: Holly and I visited the Grand Canyon Brewing Company on the first night of our honeymoon. They've only been around since 2007, so I think they've got plenty of experimenting to do to liven up their line of beers. This one is better than many I've had, not as good as some. I took home a growler to remember our visit, and split it four or five ways with friends and a half gallon of ice cream. I know a lot of you still think I'm crazy, but you wouldn't if you tried it. Believe me, it works.
Refill?: I've had a lot of better beers, but not a lot of better floats: 2.5 taps out of 5.