Wintervention

◎ Appearance

Deep black-brown hue with minimal transparency, characteristic of the style's high roast level. A dense, dark tan head forms and recedes to a thin collar, leaving pronounced lacing down the glass. The body is opaque and viscous, reflecting the beer's full weight and month-long conditioning.

◌ Aroma

The nose leads with roasted coffee and dark chocolate, grounded in a foundation of burnt toast and cocoa powder from the extended nib conditioning. Subtle notes of hazelnut and a faint alcohol warmth emerge as the beer opens, while the Millennium hops contribute a restrained herbal-bitter backdrop that does not dominate.

◐ Taste

The palate enters with rich, unsweetened cocoa and espresso character, followed by a substantial malty sweetness from Munich and chocolate malt that is held in balance by 60 IBU of assertive bitterness. Mid-palate reveals nutty undertones and a coating, full-bodied texture; the roasted grain provides dry structure that prevents cloying, while the 8.5% ABV adds subtle warming without harshness.

◑ Finish

The finish is notably long and dry, with lingering bitterness from both the Millennium hops and roasted grain character. Cocoa and coffee notes fade slowly, leaving a pleasant drying sensation on the palate.