30th Anniversary Bourbon Barrel-Aged Stout

◎ Appearance

Deep mahogany to black in color, with an opaque body that reveals minimal light. A dense, tan head forms and maintains moderate lacing down the glass. Carbonation is restrained, befitting the barrel-aged character and high alcohol content.

◌ Aroma

The nose opens with prominent dark chocolate and roasted malt, followed immediately by vanilla and oak from the bourbon barrel aging. Beneath these lie subtle coffee grounds and a warming, slightly spirit-forward character that speaks to the 14.7% ABV without becoming harsh or aggressive.

◐ Taste

The palate delivers rich chocolate and coffee flavors with good integration of vanilla sweetness and oak spice. Bitterness registers at moderate levels (65 IBU), providing structural support without overwhelming the darker, sweeter elements. The mouthfeel is full and creamy, with the alcohol warmth present but well-balanced by the malt complexity.

◑ Finish

The finish is long and evolving, with chocolate and bourbon lingering through the aftertaste. A subtle drying sensation emerges from both the roasted character and residual barrel tannins, leaving a pleasant warming in the chest.