Stone Farking Wheaton W00tstout 2016

This bourbon barrel-aged Imperial Stout is a collaboration between Stone Brewing, actor and noted homebrewer Wil Wheaton (well known for his roles in “Stand by Me” and “Star Trek: The Next Generation” [among many others]), and website founder Drew Curtis (founder of the satirical news website fark.com). The 2016 version of this beer is brewed with pecans and measures in at a whopping 13 percent ABV with 65 IBUs. The rich, complex aroma is dominated by chocolate and roasted malts with support from caramel, bourbon and vanilla. The body is rich, creamy and silky smooth with a light level of carbonation.  Again, the flavor is rich and complex with dominating chocolate and roasted flavors and a background of nutty pecans, caramel, bourbon, toasted oak and a light sweetness. The alcohol is readily apparent but is never perceived as sharp or harsh.  A light bitterness allows the semi-sweet maltiness of chocolate and roasted malt to flourish with a hint of bourbon lingering into the finish along with a pleasant alcohol warmth. A stellar barrel-aged stout with pecans adding an extra layer of complexity.