Got to try some of this last night at the Upland Tasting Room, which just opened a couple weeks ago here in Indy.  Last night was Industry Night, a night for local bar owners and those with the industry to come and sample beers and socialize.  The Teddy Bear Kisses has only been out and available for a little over a week, so we jumped on the chance to try some out last night.  Read on and see how this soft named Russian Imperial Stout rated.

Ken's Review

Taste: A I cannot say I have had many Russian Imperial Stouts, but the Teddy Bear Kisses definitely is not as cuddly as its name, hence where I think the irony plays in.  The aroma is very nice with some chocolate and a hint of vanilla undertones.  The first taste was a bit shocking, as the Stout slams your tongue with a really strong but pleasant taste as soon as it hits your taste buds, then rapidly dissipates to a nice smooth aftertaste.  The tail end is only a faint aftertaste.  Overall a very pleasant beer.

Packaging: N/A Teddy Bear Kisses is a limited time only brew, and only available on draft.  It is, however, served in a snifter, which adds a nice touch.

Value: A I think a snifter of this runs around $5.25 at the Tasting Room, so I'm guessing it is comparable at the brewery as well.  Not sure what the limited bars who are going to sell this are going to price it at, but shouldn't be worse than this.  For the depth of flavor you get from this Russian Imperial, and the alcohol content, it's a pretty fair price.

Drunkeness: A This is one area that is not a problem at all for those who partake in the Teddy Bear Kisses.  Coming in at a slamming 11.5% alcohol content, this isn't one that you will (or should) pound to get drunk, but without a nice tolerance you may not make it to or through a second one.  Even after the first sip I could feel the same slight effect that one whole beer does for me.  Be careful, and enjoy it moderately.

Overall: A Can't complain much at all on this one.  Nice bold yet smooth (is that possible?) taste, and a whopping alcohol content make this a nice one to sit and enjoy around a game of Scrabble in the Tasting Room, or socializing with friends.  This would be a fantastic choice for winter time, but I'm not sure it will still be around by then.  Hopefully, if not, we'll see this far-from-cuddly beer back next year!

Last update: 11-24-2009 22:05