The Vixen pours out of its 22 ounce bottle as a super dark brown color. The head, sitting about one finger in height, is very active and has an off white color. Some minimal lacing sits on the glass, but the head dissipates quickly. The aroma is spot on for a bock. It has a good amount sweetness with plenty of malt, some chocolate, and a hint of spice. The spice isn’t noticeably derived from the chilies, though it doesn’t have the same aroma of other chili beers.

On first taste you are met with a good malty sweetness with rich dark fruit elements. These play nicely with smooth dark chocolate notes. The caramel and cinnamon come through next which blends nicely into the chili spice finish. The chili element lingers for a while after each sip and provides change of flavor on the palate.

I didn’t know what to expect from this beer, but the chocolate and chili elements worked well with the malty bock profile. Several breweries have started to make chili beers and this one from Sam Adams can certainly hold its own against them. If you want something a bit different certainly seek this out.

Rating

86
out of 100