We know Athletic Brewing pretty well by now. They have national ad campaigns and what is probably the most extensive footprint in the non-alcoholic craft beer arena. On top of all the money they spend on marketing, they spend a lot of time finding ways to make really fricking good NA beer. Until now…
This week, we’re drinking First Ride Coffee Porter from Athletic Brewing. I had a lot of excitement around this beer since porters are not often found in the NA world, and even if they are, they are typically bland, similar to high octane porters in the alcoholic world. Having a coffee porter and having it made by Athletic Brewing should not be anything short of delicious.
How Does It Pour?
You get that delightful dark brown liquid with a tan, caramelly head upon opening. Athletic Brewing is delivering on the look of the beer. In addition, the notes of a strong yet bitter coffee hit your nose hard. The setting is perfect for Athletic Brewing to deliver its regular one-two punch.
How Does It Taste?
This is where things go a little fishy for me. The coffee in Athletic Brewing’s coffee porter is a lot. It’s reminiscent of dirty old espresso machines in a downtown coffee shop that’s been there forever. The flavor is bitter and strong, and on top of that, the coffee is all you get. They describe a nutty flavor, but the coffee overpowered all of the other flavors, in my opinion. It’s got a clean mouth feel, and there is the slight tinge of roasted malts on the finish, but that’s it.
Untappd gives this coffee porter by Athletic Brewing a 3.7 out of 5, and I don’t know if I got a bad batch or held onto this too long, but I would give it a ‘two rhinos and a grasshopper,’ which isn’t great. Try it for yourself. I will get a fresh batch when it comes around again and see if I am missing something.
HAPPY EVERY HOUR – NA Beers and 90s: Justin Lamb is dedicated to tasting great (and sometimes not so great) NA beers and showcasing his amazing collection of memorabilia from the ’90s.
RECOVERY PODCASTLAND: Want more Justin in your life? We don’t blame you! Check out his podcast, Friend Request. Justin has in-depth interviews with people he follows on social media, as well as his own social media followers. Friend Request dives deeper than the likes and comments. With each episode, Justin strives to foster a more meaningful conversation with each individual he connects with. Justin ties each interview together with the commonalities and struggles that are not only extremely relatable but also fall across the entire spectrum of the human experience.
Resources Are Available
If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulties surrounding alcoholism, addiction, or mental illness, please reach out and ask for help. People everywhere can and want to help; you just have to know where to look. And continue to look until you find what works for you. Click here for a list of regional and national resources.
