It’s a great name. Bold, intriguing, and certainly a statement of ambition for a non-alcoholic brewing brand. The name Big Drop Galactic Milk Stout suggests a beer that’s out of this world, a big promise for a stout that is typically rich and robust.
But does this non-alcoholic stout live up to its cosmic title? Let’s dive into the details and find out if it really reaches for the stars.
Appearance
When poured, the Big Drop Galactic Milk Stout presents a deep, dark ebony colour that immediately conveys the heaviness and richness you’d expect from a stout. The appearance is inviting, almost like the night sky, with a creamy tan head that forms a beautiful contrast against the darkness of the beer itself. The foam initially builds up well, though it doesn’t hold its shape for too long, dissipating more quickly than you might hope. While this doesn’t diminish the overall experience, those who appreciate the aesthetics of a well-poured stout may find this a minor disappointment. Still, the visual presentation is striking, and the deep, glossy black colour signals that you’re about to enjoy a beer that’s rich and indulgent.
Aroma
The aroma of Big Drop’s Galactic Milk Stout is as promising as its appearance. The first whiff greets you with a rich, roasted coffee scent that’s deep and inviting. This is immediately complemented by subtle notes of dark chocolate and toffee, creating a delightful olfactory experience that feels like a warm, comforting embrace. There’s a definite richness here, a complexity that signals this stout is not just another simple non-alcoholic beer. The roasted coffee and chocolate are the stars, but the hint of toffee adds a layer of sweetness that softens the intensity of the coffee, giving the aroma an inviting, balanced character. It’s an aromatic profile that sets the tone for the deep flavours to come.
Taste
On the palate, Big Drop’s Galactic Milk Stout more than lives up to its olfactory promise. The first sip reveals a rich blend of roasted malt, dark chocolate, and a subtle caramel sweetness. These flavours combine to create a well-rounded, full-bodied experience that mimics the flavour depth of traditional stouts, despite the lack of alcohol. The creamy smoothness is noticeable from the outset, and the integration of lactose adds a velvety texture that enhances the overall mouthfeel. The beer is bold, straightforward, and satisfying, though it lacks some of the nuanced complexity that you might find in its alcoholic counterpart. This is likely due to the absence of alcohol, which often contributes to the depth and subtlety in traditional stouts. However, the Galactic Milk Stout more than compensates with its bold, satisfying flavour, making it a great option for non-alcoholic beer enthusiasts and stout lovers alike.
Mouthfeel
One of the standout features of the Galactic Milk Stout is its mouthfeel. The smooth, velvety texture is luxurious, coating the palate with each sip. The lactose contributes significantly to this creamy mouthfeel, mimicking the richness and smoothness that one would expect from a full-bodied stout. The carbonation is well-controlled – it’s present, but not too lively, which helps maintain the beer’s smooth character without making it feel overly fizzy or sharp. This creates a perfect balance, where the beer feels refreshing yet indulgent. The mouthfeel is undoubtedly one of the beer’s highlights, making it a satisfying drink that’s easy to enjoy on a leisurely pace.
Finish
The finish of the Galactic Milk Stout is smooth and lingering, leaving behind pleasant notes of roasted malt and chocolate. There’s no sharp bitterness or overpowering aftertaste, just a balanced and creamy exit that makes you want to take another sip. The lack of bitterness at the finish ensures that the stout remains smooth throughout, appealing to those who enjoy the rounded, rich flavours of a milk stout without the harsh bite that some other stouts can leave behind. The finish doesn’t last forever, but it’s long enough to let the roasted flavours fade gently, leaving behind a clean, pleasant aftertaste.
Pairing Suggestions
The Galactic Milk Stout is a beer that demands bold, hearty food pairings. Rich, comforting dishes like grilled meats, stews, and dark chocolate desserts are perfect complements to the stout’s deep, creamy profile. The beer’s texture also pairs wonderfully with creamy cheeses, enhancing the richness of both the food and the drink. On the other hand, the beer’s boldness may overpower lighter dishes, so it’s best to avoid delicate flavours that might get lost in the stout’s intensity. In essence, this is a beer that goes well with punchy, robust dishes – anything that can stand up to the depth and complexity of its flavour.
Overall Impressions of Big Drop Galactic Milk Stout
Big Drop Galactic Milk Stout is a commendable addition to the growing non-alcoholic beer market. It manages to capture much of the flavour and mouthfeel of a traditional stout, making it a standout in the non-alcoholic beer category. The combination of roasted malt, dark chocolate, and caramel sweetness creates a bold, satisfying profile that doesn’t feel lacking despite the absence of alcohol. The creamy texture and smooth mouthfeel elevate the experience, making it a truly enjoyable beer for those who crave something indulgent and rich. While it may not have the same level of nuance as an alcoholic stout, it’s still an excellent option for non-drinkers or those looking for a guilt-free stout alternative.
Whether you’re a stout enthusiast or just looking for a delicious non-alcoholic beer, the Galactic Milk Stout is definitely worth a try. It delivers on its promise of a bold, full-bodied experience, and for those who enjoy stouts, it offers a fantastic alternative without the alcohol. Big Drop Brewing has set a high standard with this one, and it’s a drink I’d happily sip on again – guilt-free, of course.