Flying Dog’s Road Dog Porter

This brew has the distinction of being the first one which featured Ralph Steadman’s artwork.  According to Flying Dog’s website, the beer itself was blessed by none other than Hunter S. Thompson.  It’s also the bottle that featured the tag “Good Beer, No Shit,” which got them into a bit of a First Amendment tussle.

Personally, I think Flying Dog is leaning a little too heavily on Thompson’s ghost.  They can stand on their own.  They don’t need a dead outlaw journalist’s support.  I mean, I understand his connection to the brewery, but, whatever.

I pop the top of this road dog, and take a sniff.  I’m expecting a lot.  However, I don’t get it.  There’s not much of a scent.  It smells vaguely of yeast with a hint of dark malt.

First taste:  Subtle.  Thin.  Burnt toast, dark chocolate.  Hints of black licorice.  Bitter finish. 

Joyless.

Especially considering their outstanding Gonzo Imperial Porter, this is an immense letdown.  I finish the bottle without enthusiasm.  I have no desire for another. 

It could be that with the other beers they produce, they’ve set the bar rather high.  My expectations were up, and this didn’t meet them.

Checking online I see that others are giving this high marks.  If not an “A” grade, at least a “B.”  Should I give them the benefit of the doubt?

No.  Why?  I didn’t like it.  So no, I’m not proclaiming it groovy.  I’m moving on to the next beer.