From the Brewery: 

“Ruddy brown in color, a bittersweet balance of malt and hops with a light cream finish. Mocha Porter is made from Northwest Harrington and Klages; 135-165, 95-115, and 70-80 Crystal; Beeston Chocolate, Black, Munich and Carastan malts. Perle and Centennial hops” 5.1% ABV

Purchased from The Fort in Fresno.

The Pour: 

Poured from a 22 oz bomber into my Libbey porter/stout glass. Black in color, with a hint of ruby red coming through. A large light brown/tan head is poured, no carbonation is visible rising up in the glass, and solid lacing is left throughout.

The Nose: 

Roasty chocolate malts, caramel malts, a hint of dark-roast coffee, and a touch of lactose sweetness.

The Mouth: 

Medium thin bodied, finishing with moderate bitterness. The initial flavor is of sweet malts, leading to an aftertaste of roasted chocolate and coffee, as well as noticeable bitter hops. Chocolate flavor and a roasted mouthfeel linger on the palate.

Final Thoughts: 

I first tried Rogue’s Mocha Porter a few years ago, before I really got into craft beer. I remember not thinking too much of it then, but I’m glad that I picked up a bottle to review. The roasted chocolate profile is one my palate has developed a penchant for. For a small (5.1%) beer, this porter offers quite a bit of solid flavor. I don’t see actual coffee listed in the ingredients, so I’m guessing that portion of the mocha is to be taken from the ample dark roasted flavors. The bitter chocolate malts really come through well on the nose and palate, and the hops on the back end balance things well. 8/10

Rogue Ales – Newport, Oregon