Horny Goat Brewing Company launched its first three brands in April 2009, and created an insatiable curiosity throughout southeastern Wisconsin. Only a few years later, their portfolio and their following has expanded. Horny Goat is a fun and whimsical concept that produces serious and focused beers. One of their newest limited releases is a Black Vanilla IPA.

The beer pours a dark brown, almost black color with reddish hues towards the edges of the glass when view against the light. The two finger frothy tan colored head shows great retention and leaves behind a beautiful, generous lacing.

Aromas of earthy hops and pine resin jump out at you. A chocolate roasted malt note can be found hiding out under all the hops. A touch of vanilla is also discernible but doesn’t pack the punch the hops do.

Piney, earthy and citrus hops (dominated by grapefruit) flood the palate. Notes of dark roasted malts and a hint of char are also notable. Rich chocolate and creamy vanilla notes hit on the mid-palate and are in direct contrast with the hops. The finish shows a lingering hop bitterness with a touch of vanilla. The mouth-feel is surprisingly smooth.

This is a very interesting beer. Almost an oxymoron in a glass, somehow it works! Try this one with your favorite blue cheese, Thai peanut chicken or vanilla bean ice cream. 

The Beer Buyer Overall Rating: 3.5 Out of 5 Pints