Inspired by the Andes mountains, “Kuka” comes from the native language meaning “food for workers and travelers,” a reference to the bounty provided by gods. Made by the Andean Brewing Company in Blauvelt, NY, their latest addition is a stout brewed with Brazilian coffee and lactose, fittingly named Coffee & Cream.

The beer pours a dark cola with mahogany hues when viewed against the light. The one finger caramel colored head dissipates somewhat quickly but leaves a sporadic and small amount of lacing.

On the nose you’ll find notes of rich cocoa alongside aromas of super dark, almost burnt, slightly bitter coffee. There is a sweet milky note imparted from the lactose and a hint of roasted malts.

On the palate you will find tons of dark roasted bitter coffee flavors. The coffee his highlighted by a rich unsweetened cocoa note. There are bready and malty notes that help balance the coffee and cocoa notes, and a hint of the lactose brings it all together. The lactose was more prominent on the nose than the palate.

This lighter style coffee stout is a nice effort from Kuka. Try it with Triple Crème, braised beef roast or dark chocolate lava cake. 

The Beer Buyer Overall Rating: 3.0 Out of 5 Pints