There has been so much hype about the Bacon Maple Ale from Rogue that I knew I just had to try it. Luckily enough, I found a bottle of it at Vendome.
Here is a link to the VooDoo description of it. It basically breaks down why and what Rogue did. I still need to drink a lot of their ales, but I have never really been a fan of them to this point, so yeah.
Upon the pour you see a quick, bubbly, big head that fills toward the top of the glass but it dissipates very quickly. Not a bad thing at this point but I assumed that maybe the bacon is playing a reaction creating a loss in head retention. The nose is straight smoked bacon. It almost smelled like something I wanted no part of. I mean it was a good smell, but not something I would ever expect from a drink. I have no other way to describe it. You get exactly what you think you are at this point. I thought the beer would have a medium to thick mouthfeel but it was very light. Pretty much like water but the smokiness sticks throughout it so it lends a weird texture. Though, still good. Bacon all the way with a tad of sweetness, the maple I am assuming but it doesn't really taste mapley... is that a word? And a hint of breadyness. This is definitely an experience. But what is better than having a beer alone? The beer paired with its namesake doughnut.
Paired with the Doughnut. Interesting to say the least. Though, in a good way, once again. Remember to swallow before you taste your beer. I have had bad experiences with similar pastries before. The sweetness of the doughnut kills some of the smokiness but the bacon flavor remains. I do not know if this is from the bacon alone or the beer. I am assuming the beer. Very intense.
Overall, I would say a good doughnut and a good beer. Would I do it again? Yes. When? Who knows.
Cheers!
