Speedway Stout

Located in a quiet Mira Mesa business park, AleSmith Brewing has been turning out stunning beers since 1995. Speedway Stout is a monster of a Russian Imperial Stout. Clocking in at a mind-boggling 12% ABV, it’s not a beer to be toyed with. Speedway Stout’s aroma washes over the room in waves redolent of anise seed, dark chocolate, and French roast coffee. Tom zeroed in on the strong, espresso-like coffee notes and appreciated the deft balance between the roast and the lightly sweet malt underpinning. The bold notes of chicory and cocoa impressed Brandon, who pronounced the aroma an “inviting sensation.” Crowned by a dense, creamy off-white head, this deep, ebony brew seems to drain the light from the room, yet displays garnet and ruby flashes at its edges. In the classic Russian Imperial Stout style, Speedway throws off fistfuls of coffee, toffee, and dark fruit flavors. Marty enjoyed the deep, dark chocolate and faint plum flavors, and felt the bitterness balanced this beer’s prodigious maltiness. While he liked the cocoa and raisin notes, Tyson had high praise for the “masterfully brewed coffee” flavors and the firm alcohol punch. Given the 12% ABV and packaging in a 750-ml bottle, once opened this beer is best shared among friends. With the cold months of winter ahead, AleSmith Speedway Stout is just the thing to keep the chill at bay.