Beer Review: Freezer Fresh Sundae: Rocky Road
Brewery: Evil Twin Brewing NYC (Ridgewood, NY)
Style: Imperial Pastry Stout
ABV: 11.0%
Part of Evil Twin NYC’s “Freezer Fresh Sundae” series, this beer is a decadent liquid interpretation of the classic rocky road ice cream flavor. It is brewed as a heavy pastry stout using ingredients typically found in high-end desserts.
Appearance
- Color: The beer pours a deep, near-black color, characteristic of an imperial stout.
- Texture: It is visually thick and viscous.
- Head: Reports indicate minimal to no head formation upon pouring.
Aroma
- The bouquet is led by intense notes of melted chocolate ice cream and fudge brownie.
- Subtle layers of vanilla and a hint of almond nuttiness are also present.
- The overall aroma is often compared to a “melted pint” of premium chocolate-based ice cream.
Flavor Profile
- Ingredients: This stout is brewed with chocolate soft serve, fudge brownies, almonds, marshmallow, and vanilla.
- Taste: The palate is dominated by chocolate cream and sweet adjuncts.
- Marshmallow Finish: While some tasters find the marshmallow notes subtle or “one-note,” others report a distinct and tasty marshmallow finish.
- Booze Integration: Despite its high 11.0% ABV, the alcohol is generally well-hidden by the heavy sweetness and adjuncts.
Mouthfeel
- Body: Exceptionally full-bodied, often described as “chewy,” “heavy,” and “thick”.
- Carbonation: Typically low, enhancing the creamy, ice-cream-like texture.
Freezer Fresh Sundae: Rocky Road is a quintessential pastry stout that leans heavily into its dessert theme. It is best suited for drinkers who enjoy high-viscosity, very sweet beers that prioritize flavor-forward adjuncts over traditional malt or hop profiles.