Onyx of High

◎ Appearance

Deep black with a dense, espresso-colored head that clings to the glass with substantial retention. The body is opaque and viscous, betraying the beer's high alcohol content and rich adjunct additions. Minimal carbonation is evident, appropriate for a barrel-aged imperial stout of this weight.

◌ Aroma

The nose opens with prominent vanilla and toasted oak from the bourbon barrel program, layered beneath dark plum skin and leather notes. Mocha and honey sweetness emerge in the mid-ground, with subtle foraged Candy Cap mushroom earthiness adding complexity. The 14.1% alcohol is present but well-integrated, lending warmth without harsh volatility.

◐ Taste

Entry is smooth and full-bodied, with vanilla and oak immediately taking the lead. The mid-palate develops rich roasted character, maple crumble sweetness, and dark fruit depth, balanced by 65 IBU of measured bitterness that prevents cloy. The high alcohol provides structure and a slight boozy warmth without burning; the nearly two years of barrel time has rounded all edges into a cohesive, velvety whole.

◑ Finish

The finish is long and warming, with oak and vanilla lingering through the aftertaste alongside a subtle coffee note and fading roasted grain. Alcohol warmth persists gently, leaving the palate dry without harshness.