Beer Review: Stone Arrogant Bastard Ale

I usually try not to let the name of a beer influence what I think of it, (and I still vow to remain an impartial reviewer for this beer) but Stone's Arrogant Bastard Ale certainly evokes some strong expectations. Luckily, it delivers, big time. Read on to find out why.


The beer pours a thick, dark amber color with a light, fluffy head. A thin stream of carbonation slips up the sides of the glass; overall an ordinary looking beer.

The scent of this beer is rather unassuming; there are sweet, malty notes that dominate. It smells pretty thin all-together and not very complex.

The first sip is quite a surprise; hoppy bitterness is the first thing you can taste and only after another sip do I notice the bready malts and a lingering sweetness on the back end. This is a very flavorful beer but not as complex as I expected. After reflecting on the sip, there's molasses sweetness intermingled with the bitterness that pervades the taste (perhaps a mix of hoppiness and roasted malts) but not a whole lot going on other than that.

The mouthfeel is substantial; almost sticky at times. Not overly carbonated, which adds to the doughy feel.

I bought a bomber of Arrogant Bastard for $4.99 plus tax. You can purchase 4 packs of the oaked version widely for approximately $11.99 plus tax but the 22oz bottle format is the only way to get the regular version. It's a great beer so although bombers aren't an excellent value, I highly recommend giving it a try.

Score: B+  3.75/5