Oat is one of the (more subtle) flavours you would expect to get when you drink a stout. But putting oatmeal front and centre in the name? That’s pretty new. However, that’s what Bravus, a Californian brewer, has done. So it only seemed right to check out the Bravus Oatmeal Dark Stout and see what makes it different. A dedicated non-alcoholic brewer, Bravus has a wide range of drink options on the market, but a stout can be a tricky one to pull off.
Let’s have a taste and see how well it captures the distinctive characteristics of a stout – and the oatmeal twist they’ve added.
Appearance
The Bravus Oatmeal Dark Stout certainly pours like a classic stout. In a muted pub room, it looks almost black in the glass. Topping the pour is a creamy, tan head that lingers impressively (if not quite to the degree of the classics of the genre), forming intricate lacing as it dissipates. The carbonation is moderate.
Aroma
Ah, that classic stout aroma of roasted malts, dark chocolate, and freshly brewed espresso. The nose here is bold and inviting. They capture all those required notes well, and keep them balanced. Secondary notes of caramel and molasses emerge as the stout warms. There’s also a faint nuttiness, reminiscent of toasted hazelnuts or pecans, adding depth. For those accustomed to traditional stouts, the aroma may feel slightly lighter, and it’s not super-oaty (if that’s what you were after), but it it is, in terms of stout, pretty (ahem) on the nose in terms of aroma.
Taste
The flavour of the Bravus Oatmeal Dark Stout is rich and well-rounded, capturing many of the characteristics that define a classic stout. The initial sip delivers a hit of roasted malt, with accompanying notes of dark chocolate and espresso. As the flavour develops, hints of caramel, toffee, and a touch of oat-driven creaminess provide balance. You might also catch a whisper of dark fruit – perhaps dried cherries or prunes? – that lends a subtle sweetness.
Mouthfeel
Smooth? Yes. Velvety? Also yes. It’s in the mouthfeel that the oatmeal probably makes the biggest difference. It gives the stout a creamy texture that glides across the palate. It doesn’t mean it’s overly heavy, and the gentle effervescence helps retain that lighter touch. While the stout is satisfyingly creamy, it lacks the full-bodied thickness found in some alcoholic stouts. This difference is, however, pretty minor.
Finish
I like a long finish on a stout. For me, it”s not a “get it down yer neck” type of drink. So being able to savour its distinctive flavour is a plus. The finish of Bravus Oatmeal Dark Stout is pleasingly long. The lingering notes are those of roasted malt and dark chocolate, along with a touch of smokiness. The absence of alcohol means there’s no residual heat, but the stout’s robust flavour profile ensures it doesn’t feel lacking.
Pairing Suggestions
It a bold brew, so you’ll want to eat strong flavours that hold up alongside it. Go with hearty, umami-rich dishes like beef stew, grilled portobello mushrooms, or smoked brisket. That oatiness means it could also do decent service alongside a creamy pasta dish. Or, at dessert, a chocolate sweet with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. I’d enjoy it just with some crackers and cheese, probably a gouda.
Overall Impressions of Bravus Oatmeal Dark Stout
Bravus just make non-alcoholic beers. And it shows. Their Oatmeal Dark Stout is a really strong offering. It’s got that rich, nuanced profile that you want from a stout, and it’s remarkably “classic” tasting for an NA version. The oatmeal probably makes a difference to the texture, enhancing the creaminess, if not particularly noteworthy an addition on the palate. But that’s a minor semantic quibble if anything. Even if ever so slightly lighter than its alcoholic cousins, this non-alcoholic stout really does the job.