Judge's Review: 90 Rating - Honorary Girl Scout: Samo'nut Cookie by Pontoon Brewing

Honorary Girl Scout: Samo'nut Cookie by Pontoon Brewing is being evaluated as a Spice, Herb, or Vegetable Beer (2015 BJCP Category 30A) with the additions of lactose, coconut and chocolate all in a porter base. Not surprisingly, it’s an inky black beer with clarity that can’t be determined. No head formed even during a vigorous pour.

The aroma reminds me of a Mounds bar with moderately high milk and dark chocolate, rich caramel, vanilla and supportive toasted coconut. No hops are present and neither are any esters from fermentation.

The flavor follows the aroma with rich chocolate and coconut with restrained toasted malt. The caramel alongside the semi-sweet finish gives the beer a dessert-like character that's not cloying in the slightest. Well attenuated with a medium-low body, it’s a relatively easy-drinker that has lingering dark chocolate and coconut. No hop elements noted; very low bitterness.

Another solid beer from Pontoon that approaches a dessert status but stops short with its lower body and solid attenuation. It being a porter and not an imperial stout definitely helps in that manner. If you’re looking for a something to satisfy a late night craving without the propensity of cavities, Honorary Girl Stout is a good option.