Sideswipe Elegant Hoodlum Smoked Stout (8/10)

I recently read an article in one of the “free” Columbus newspapers that talked about Sideswipe Brewing.  Sideswipe was founded by Craig O’Herron, a black-belt martial artist who turned his brewing hobby into a business after returning to the USA from Thailand.  Sideswipe officially opened in 2013, so it’s a very new entrant to the Central Ohio craft brewing scene.  As you’ll see in a moment, while Sideswipe might be a new to the market, its products appear to be first-rate.

Elegant Hoodlum pours black with a finger-thick tan head that doesn't last long.
The aroma is malty, chocolaty, and contains a hint of coffee and smoke.

The flavor starts malty with a smoky, roasted grain note to it. The finish is mildly bitter.

The smoky elements are subtle and contribute to the flavor rather than dominating it.

This has all the elements I enjoy in a good stout.  It’s hearty, thick but not syrupy, malty but with a perfect balance of bitterness, and with a hint of smoke to add some complexity.  It’s a very well-executed beer and my hat is off to Sideswipe for producing it.

This is a new enough beer that Rate Beer and Beer Advocate do not yet have many ratings for it.  (Mine was the first on Rate Beer and the third on Beer Advocate.)

I purchased this bottle at Savor Market on Indianola. I've also seen it at Kenny Road Market.

According to their web site, the beer may also be available at Ale, Wine, and Sprits of Powell, The Barrel and Bottle, Celebrate Local, Country Carry Out, Crafted Drafts, Gentile’s Wine Sellers, The Hills Market, Palmer’s Beverage Center, Weiland’s Market, and World of Beer at Easton.


Flavor Profile:
Sweet, Malty, Dry, Bitter, or Sour: Malty
Spice Level:  None
Hops Level: Low
Dominant Flavors: Dark malt, coffee, unsweetened chocolate, smoke
ABV:  7%
IBU: 
My Rating: 8/10