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Garrick van Buren's picture

20th Anniversary Bourbon Barrel Imperial Stout

October, 2015
Judges Rating: 
82
Aroma: 
20 / 24
Appearance: 
6 / 6
Flavor: 
33 / 40
Mouthfeel: 
6 / 10
Overall Impression: 
17 / 20

A rich and complex aroma lead by bittersweet chocolate and roastiness followed by caramel and raisins envelops your nose from this opaque, black beer with a rocky, brown, persistent head. On the palate, the complex malt notes continue; raisin, plum, caramel, and chocolate all rounded out by vanilla and bourbon from the aging. No hop character is present in the aroma or flavor -- perhaps because of the barrel aging. Despite a huge, velvety body, a rich creaminess, and a firm, hot alcohol warmth, the finish is dry with lingering notes of Dutch-processed cocoa and caramel. Enjoy this beer in a snifter around the fireplace at the end of the night.