From the Brewery: 

“Darkness.  The deep ebony color, voluptuous mahogany head and bold, roasty flavors in our Barney Flats Oatmeal Stout are what serious beer drinkers expect from this style.  Aromas of freshly baked bread, espresso, and dried cherries meld seamlessly with rich toffee flavors and a creamy mouth feel to create an unparalleled drinking experience.” 5.8% ABV

The Pour: 

Poured from a 12 oz can into a pint glass. The color is solid black. The head is brownish-tan and foamy/frothy. Good lacing is left on the glass.

The Nose: 

Sweet malts, molasses, black coffee, slightly burnt toffee/caramel and a hint of dark chocolate.

The Mouth: 

Medium bodied, smooth and luscious going down. There is a mild roasty flavor initially, giving way to a faintly bitter aftertaste of sweet malted barley and molasses that coats the palate and lingers delicately.

Final Thoughts: 

This was my first oatmeal stout in the can (or canned craft beer of any type), and I was a little unsure of what to expect. My worries were quickly quashed, for as soon as I popped the top I knew I would enjoy this beer. The scent was sweet and malty, with enough bitterness to balance it perfectly. The flavors were clean and smooth, and I got none of the metallic aluminum-can taste I was worried about. In fact, the taste was cleaner and more “just beer” than most bottled beers I’ve had. Very solid beer – great taste, great balance of bittersweetness, easy to drink and smooth going down. One of the better beers I’ve had lately. 9/10

Anderson Valley Brewing Company – Boonville, California