Pours dark as the night with vigorous pour bringing about a half glass of mocha colored, thick foam. Retention is well above average. The foam thickens as it recedes. Sporadic lacing.
Aroma of bourbon and wood come through to begin. Pleasant, not strong. Of course vanilla is right on the heels while cocoa hints are laced throughout. Subtlety roasted malts bubbles to the top too.
WOW! That's how I can explain the taste in one word. Complex and smooth. Oak, vanilla, cocoa, bourbon, roasted malt, and a touch of coffee all titillate the taste buds. The end culminates in a mixture of cocoa, vanilla, and bourbon that is darn tasty. A bit of brown sugar hits late, leaving a lingering sweetness.
Big body that sits on a thin carbonation that is backed by a silky, creamy finish.
No alcohol present at all on this creamy smooth brew. The bourbon aging adds complexity allowing enough of the base to show through. One of the most drinkable RIS beers I have had. I assume the year plus in the cellar did it a solid. Enjoy!
1,073 characters
Reviewed: Tuesday, August 16, 2011 at 21:54:03
Tasted: Tuesday, August 16, 2011
$0.00 for 12 oz. bottle
Modal title
One fine body…
Untappd
(3.875)
over 23,411 ratings
Beer Notes
This is an incredibly intriguing ale is made by aging our Old Heathen Imperial Stout in oak barrels that were used for making fine Kentucky bourbon! The result is an extraordinary, dark, and mysterious stout whose very essence has been enhanced. The aroma is filled with vanilla, cocoa, and roasted coffee beans.
This silky-smooth brew has notes of oak, whiskey, roasted barley and vanilla that meld together on the tongue to create an incredible sensation.
"Not all chemicals are bad. Without chemicals such as hydrogen and oxygen, for example, there would be no way to make water, a vital ingredient in beer." - Dave Barry