Like most porters, Highland’s Oatmeal pours with a deep, dark, mellow color and a nearly gold head on top. The froth is always thick, always dense and provides some of the best lacing a craft brew can give.
Brewed in Asheville, N.C., the folks there know their beer and crave Highland on a daily basis. You can’t go to a bar or restaurant in town without being able to pick up a Highland craft and the Oatmeal Porter is often at the top of the list.
As the name would indicate, oatmeal is a major component to the beer. In fact, that and a hint of chocolate is about all you can smell from afar and putting your nose deep into the glass. A molasses flavor lingers on the nose after a time and you can even smell a bit of what seems to be cedar.
For the taste, it is in-your-face and exciting. There are some hops to the concoction that are a bit bitter, but the molasses and oatmeal soon come out swinging and knock that away after a few sips. The finish is practically malty and by the end of the pint, you can tell it’s sweet and savory and will hang around on your tongue for a few moments after the last slug.
The beer, overall, is smooth, full-bodied and worth a pint while enjoying a hot lunch or dinner out with friends. It’s as close, however, as you are going to come to a stout (which Highlands also makes) so drink them accordingly and enjoy.