There’s a lot to unpack in the Dragon’s Milk White bourbon-barrel aged white stout from New Holland Brewing, and that’s a good thing.
Dragon’s Milk White is neither white, like milk, nor black, like the color of most stouts. I love a good stout. They’re typically hearty and robust, with a good depth of flavor. They’re not for everyone, at least the stouts that most people know or recognize. Most think of a thick black or dark brew with a cap of foam. A friend of mine dislikes them and says I’m drinking drained motor oil. I’m working to refine his palate.
But the Dragon’s Milk White breaks those notions. The color is rich, a nice amber hue that doesn’t visually offend those with the preconceived ideas of a stout. The flavor comes in with a nice burst. Consider it a “lighter stout,” as New Holland correctly says. Along with the usual boldness of a stout, the nuances of the bourbon barrel aging slide in for another layer. It finishes nicely, too.
Bourbon Barrel Aging?
I’ve tried several bourbon barrel brews and rarely am impressed. It’s like one of two things have happened: a brewer wants to push the envelope or they’re just getting started with them and still are learning. Both things usually suck, because you end up with an overpowered, charred-barrel beverage. I feel the same way about some flavored and seasonal beverages. Just because you can put in fall pumpkin or spring toadstool or winter essense of walleye doesn’t mean you should.
The Dragon’s Milk White is not that. New Holland has a long history of brewing top-flight beverages thanks to knowledgeable people. Dragon’s Milk is a legendary brew and the White likely will gain a good following, too. Dragon’s Milk White is available year-round, has a serving temp of 40-50 degrees (like a stout should), and an ABV of 6% with an IBU of 3.5.
I’m not sure I’d slam this after a long trail or road run, but it would be good later on with a burger or pizza. Campfire or lakeside chillin’ also would work.
When the run is over and you reach in the cooler, we recommend that you enjoy whatever beverage you want to tipple. Water, non-alcoholic, vegan, soda, a hard cider, hoppy IPA or nice lager. Whatever. We’re cool with it. Some days for us it might be a cold beer. Other days, just the lukewarm water in the back seat because we forgot to bring the cooler. Just please remember if you’re going to drink, be responsible, and don’t drink and drive.
Some beverages have been provided for consideration to TVO by public relations agencies and/or companies. Reviews are our own.
