Double Bass Chipotle Chocolate Stout by Starr Hill Brewery is being evaluated as a Spice Herb or Vegetable (Category 30A) from the 2015 BJCP guidelines.
The base beer is an imperial stout, it pours very dark brown –nearly opaque. The cascading effervescence reminiscent of a nitro pour creates a dark tan foamy head. This head density is thick and has a long lasting persistence.
The aroma has a roasted malt character that is moderately low. It exhibits a light herbal note that is hard to discern. The known chipotle (smoked jalapeño pepper) is not too prominent, yet the fruity esters are, especially upon swirling. This beer gets prickly in the nose as it warms, but just short of spicy.
In the flavor we find a moderate amount of roasted malt with a creamy chocolate character. The transition into the smokey/peppery side is quick and leaves the base beer in the background the more sips you have. The chipotle heat certainly takes center stage, leaving a very dry and spicy finish. The balance is definitely toward the spicy.
The body is medium. The carbonation is medium-low with no alcoholic warmth, probably masked by the spiciness. The chocolate creaminess of the base beer shines through before the spiciness prickles the tongue, and palate. The astringency is non-existent which is a welcomed feat in a dark roasted malt beer.
Overall a very good beer with some favorable heat that’ll pair well with Thai curry, spicy Mexican dishes or a sausage pizza. Sipping this beer solo can become a bit monotonous, so go ahead and try it with your favorite spicy dish. Cheers!