Nestec: Coffee beer

Well, it’s pretty debatable (to me, at least) whether this "fermented coffee beverage" can be truly called beer, but that’s apparently how it’s being marketed. Or something. New Scientist has the article.

Nestec, part of the Nestlé empire in Switzerland, has filed patents in every major market round the world on a "fermented coffee beverage" that pours and foams like beer, but smells of strong coffee and packs a concentrated caffeine kick.

The beverage is made in a similar way to beer, but fine-tuned temperature control stops the formation of ethyl alcohol. So the new drink could go down well with people who want a long tall pick-me-up while driving.

I just don’t see the point. Wouldn’t you just drink coffee directly? Or better yet… a coffee-flavored beer, with alcohol and everything?

Slashfood also has a post about it.