At first this seemed like the Sierra Nevada Stout: a stout with the right balance of creaminess, bitterness and alcohol. However, the bitterness - my favorite feature of stouts - was cumulatively better; and this wasn't as thin (watery). So I gladly popped open Rasputin for an on the spot comparison. Rasputin was too strong (alcohol content-wise), but the balance otherwise was the same. So why make such a big deal about this stout: because the price is sooooooooo cheap. This stout was $5 for 22 oz. at ABD. For price to quality and just on its own merit, this is my new favorite. UPDATE: I'm reminded to mention the presence of the anise or liquorish hint, which was absent in Nevada Sierra. Rasputin tastes a bit sweet and more syrupy; while McNeill's was less sweet and less syrupy. So the edge goes to McNeill's. I don't care for high carbonation or syrupy beers; somewhere in between is the right balance.

Member#28419 9 months ago