The Temptress - Lakewood Brewing Review
Imperial Milk Stout. Right off the bat I’ll say that I’m not an expert in these beers, but the style has created quite the following with Lakewood Brewing’s Temptress being Texas’s favorite stout. That bold statement is what truly excites us, not only because Texas is so big but because we’re curious to know what our neighbors are drinking.
But Imperial Milk Stout does not have the most appealing sound to me, so that’s where a bit of research comes in. The milk stout (much to my surprise) actually started in 1800s UK, where they marketed it as a nutritious drink for hard working men and women, but it has since evolved into a craft phenom and a bit of a coveted style. Lactose (milk sugar, so if you’re lactose-intolerant, stay away) is added to make it a milk stout, and, because the yeast can’t ferment it, adds additional sweetness and a smooth mouthfeel.
Well, we’re not experts, but we won’t get any more informed by not trying, so let’s take a peek at this 9.1% ABV and 56 IBU Temptress. Don’t tell Mrs. Brew!
First Impressions:
On the Eyes--Dark as coal and with not a hint of light shining through even when held up to the light. The Temptress is covered with a milk-chocolate head that diminishes quickly.
On the Nose--Deep roasted and dark chocolate quality with the gentlest (and very pleasant) notes of caramel and vanilla. Really enticing, like a rich dessert or a hearty drink for hearty people.
On the Palate--Very rich and immediately complex with the tastebuds grasping at flavors. The roasted malt strikes first and fades to a semi-sweet chocolate smoothed out by those notes of caramel and vanilla from the aroma. The Temptress is a bit thinner in body than I was expecting but still leans toward full and smooth. The high ABV is masked quite well by the roasted malt and complex flavor, but the warming feeling is undeniable. It finishes dry and with only a gentle lingering of roasted and vanilla flavors.
Food Pairings: Stouts pair great with a lot of winter meals, including roasts, smoked meats, and rich stews, though I would be curious to try The Temptress with a chocolate cake or Tiramisu to pull out those deep chocolate and coffee flavors.
Final Thoughts:
Milk stouts may not always top the list in the Brew House, but stouts often do, and especially so when the temperature starts dropping. We like them rich and smooth and complex but approachable. Some stouts are too sweet, and others are so roasted that the palate is numbed after only a few sips.
Neither is the case with The Temptress. And we are thankful for that. I thought it might come across too sweet considering the additions of lactose and vanilla, but Lakewood is judicious in the use of both. It is complex and rich, which is necessary for the high 9.1% ABV to not make this beer dull. I was expecting something a little fuller in the mouth, but the roasted notes linger through a chocolatey dryness and the vanilla adds a necessary sweetness to the finish to keep this stout unique and well-loved by Texans.
It is quite expensive ($11.27/4-pack of 12 oz. cans), but it is a worthy beer to try, especially if you love a good stout or if you’re curious what your neighbors are drinking, as we are.
Cheers!
Mr. Brew