Barrel Aged 18lb

◎ Appearance

Deep brown to near-black in color with a SRM of 28, presenting the visual density characteristic of an imperial porter. The head forms in modest volume with fine, tight carbonation, settling to a thin collar that clings to the glass with deliberate restraint. Clarity is opaque; light does not penetrate the body.

◌ Aroma

The nose opens with roasted espresso and cocoa dust, grounded by the vanilla and oak character from nine months in bourbon barrels. Dark stone fruits—black cherry and dried fig—emerge beneath the roast, with subtle notes of char and a faint whisper of licorice. The barrel presence is warm and integrated, not raw or sharp.

◐ Taste

Entry is smooth and fully structured, with chocolate and coffee taking the lead across the palate. The six-malt bill provides a rich, malty sweetness that balances the roasted character; flaked oats contribute a silky mouthfeel. Mid-palate deepens with black mission fig and dark cherry notes, while the bourbon barrel adds subtle vanilla and oak tannins without overwhelming the base beer. Bitterness from Summit, Centennial, and Chinook remains restrained and integrated, lending a drying counterpoint rather than assertion.

◑ Finish

The finish is long and warming, with chocolate and roasted grain lingering gently on the palate. The 9.7% ABV registers as a soft heat, complementing rather than dominating the decay.