Beer Review: Urban Roots / Temple Coffee Kaffe Americano Coffee Stout
Urban Roots Brewing has teamed up with the acclaimed Temple Coffee Roasters to craft the Kaffe Americano Coffee Stout — a collaboration that delivers precisely what it promises: a coffee-forward stout that bridges the gap between your morning brew and your evening pint.
Appearance: This stout pours a deep, inviting opaque black with a rich, tan head that settles nicely, leaving behind delicate lacing on the glass. It looks exactly like a well-pulled espresso with a creamy crema.
Aroma: The Temple Coffee influence truly shines here. It’s an immediate, robust burst of fresh, dark-roasted coffee, reminiscent of walking into a high-end coffee shop. Underlying this strong coffee note are hints of dark chocolate, a touch of roasted malt, and a subtle earthiness that adds complexity. It’s vibrant and invigorating.
Taste: The first sip confirms the aroma. A bold, rich coffee flavor takes center stage, tasting like a perfectly brewed Americano – robust, slightly bitter, and incredibly fresh. This isn’t a coffee candy stout; it’s a genuine coffee experience. As the coffee mellows, notes of dark chocolate and a gentle roastiness from the malts emerge, providing a solid foundation. There’s a crisp, clean bitterness that balances the sweetness, making it remarkably refreshing for a stout. The “fruity” aspect mentioned on the can is subtle, possibly a bright note from the coffee beans themselves, adding a delicate layer rather than an overt fruit flavor.
Mouthfeel: Medium-bodied with a smooth, almost silky texture. It’s surprisingly light for a stout, contributing to its drinkability. The carbonation is moderate, allowing the flavors to glide across the palate cleanly, leading to a dry, lingering finish that leaves you wanting another sip – much like a good cup of coffee.
The Urban Roots / Temple Coffee Kaffe Americano Coffee Stout is a triumph for coffee stout enthusiasts. It masterfully showcases the quality of Temple Coffee’s beans within a well-crafted stout. It’s incredibly drinkable, balanced, and truly delivers on its promise of an “Americano” experience in beer form. If you love both craft beer and artisanal coffee, this stout is an absolute must-try. It’s perfect for a brunch pairing, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a dessert beer without being overly sweet.
A perfectly executed coffee stout that will satisfy both beer and coffee connoisseurs.