Tommyknocker Cocoa Porter Winter Warmer

Tommyknocker Brewery
Idaho Springs, CO

The appearance of a dwarf has always preceded a bad event in the area according to Michigan lore, and with a major snowstorm forecast for the next two days I'll keep that tradition going. Ok, so technically this brewery refers to their 'mascot' as Tommyknockers and since there really isn't a picture of the little guy on the beer label I can't blame him for the impending blizzard doom. I will pin him with the responsibility of making a very mediocre ale though.
This poured a murky brown cola color and appeared flat. Not much going on with the aroma as I can only pick up some faint bitter cocoa and roasted malt. Can't say it tastes bad as its a soft refreshing Winter beer, but its a bit thinner than I'd like for anything that is supposed to have the characteristics of a porter. There is a Nesquick-like malty flavor up front before eventually fading to a dull taste without anything standing out. I'd recommend a single or two instead of chancing your palate to an entire sixer.

Yuengling Black & Tan

D.G. Yuengling and Son
Pottsville, PA

The history of 'America's Oldest Brewery' could be an all night discussion in itself. Let's just say this company has found a niche for itself over the past decade and has survived long enough to become the 2nd largest American owned brewery.
Sadly this can't be found on beer shelves anywhere in the mitten state so I have to stock up twice a year when my in-laws come up for a visit. I've talked to some of my better beer store managers and the story they've been given is that the brewery does not want to distribute this far away. I'm throwing a yellow flag and suspect there are greater political powers that may be keeping them shut out from here.
Anyways, back to the beer, this is a great one for the Winter. Its light enough in body that its still refreshing, but not so thin that it has no character. There are nice roasty, chocolate notes in the aroma with some hints of smoke. The flavor is pretty light, but there is still enough evidence of a creamy porter to make it enjoyable. Big points for the price point as I believe you can walk out the door with a 12 pack for just over ten bucks. If this was ever offered up here there's little doubt this would become my 'cheap swill' during the Winter months.