Half Acre Big Hugs

Ever since I decided on moving to Chicago, someone has been nagging me to grab Big Hugs.  Well, in the past that was easier said than done a my schedule has made attending beer events some what difficult at this time of year (damn you responsibility!).  That being said, I got lucky and met someone from Half Acre this year and they were kind enough to actually get me a growler of Big Hugs at their release party that I was once again unable to attend.  I may have had a little too much fun rubbing it in someone's face...

Half Acre Big Hugs

Appearance- An opaque black color as no light appears to shine through.  A small tan heard disappears almost entirely except for a small ring, but this is a growler that I got earlier in the weeks so that probably has something to do with it.  Small amounts of lacing as well.

Smell- A rich full chocolate smell right away.  Moderate to high amounts of roasted malts are layered with smells of dark chocolate.  Hints of coffee, and more specifically, espresso as well.  Although there are compliments of espresso, the chocolate and roasted malts dominate this beer.  Small to moderate amounts of alcohol are noticeable towards the end.

Taste- There is a smooth chocolate similar to the smell.  The chocolate seems to be almost bitter sweet throughout the beer, jumping from one to the other.  Medium to high amounts of roasted malt are apparent throughout.  Some malt sweetness can be tasted as well.  Light amount of coffee/espresso, but it does not quite stack up to the chocolate character.  Currants can be tasted slightly, but are washed away rather quickly.  Although this is a 10% alcohol beer, there is only a small amount noticeable at the end of the beer.

Mouthfeel- Full bodied and slightly creamy.  Some alcohol warmth towards the end.  terribly smooth for 10% beer.

Overall- I have been looking forward to this beer and it did not disappoint.  Incredibly smooth for its size and its combination of chocolate and roasted malts while still managing to balance out the alcohol.  Also, look at that label.  Seriously.  Look at it.  How could you say no to Big Hugs?  Just google that and have fun with all the variations.