Chocolate Banana Milkshake is a Milk Stout brewed by Bangin’ Banjo Brewing Company, and for the purposes of this review, was served in a snifter from bottle.
Appearance
Pours an opaque black with a thick cap of dense brown foam that offers fine retention. An aggressive pour yields the best head. A soapy ring gathers at the collar during reduction and a smattering of droplets clings to the glass.
Aroma
Sweet aroma softly wafts a scent of lactose, chocolate, and banana. Hearty coffee roast and alcohol appear as the beer warms.
Flavor
Tasting begins with toasty banana bread followed by a mild hopping and roast malt that adds enough balance. Finishes dry and sweet with a lingering taste of chocolate.
The palate changes as the beer begins to warm. Flavors of dark fruit, toffee, and molasses appear along with the heat from the alcohol.
Mouthfeel
A sextet of malts contributes to a feel that’s silky smooth with a medium-full body and moderate carbonation.
Overall
Many milk stouts have a strong presence of lactose but its use here is managed well. The taste of chocolate and banana is lovely without being overpowering. Roast malt, hops, and alcohol contribute to a balanced palate.
This is a beer to share as its sweet flavors, rich feel, and alcohol weigh heavily upon the taste buds through the session. That being said, the Chocolate Banana Milkshake is a really well-made brew.