“Imperial stout brewed with honey and aged in oak barrels. 2017 edition – Aqua wax.”
Glassware: Snifter.
Appearance: Solid black with a finger of dark tan foam capping off. The head gradually peels off and forms a thick ring which works a healthy lace down the glass.
Aroma: Nice and big. We won’t go as far as saying it’s aggressive but it’s certainly knocking on that door. The bourbon barrels are front and center here – although we’ve never tried (or even heard of) this bourbon before it displays a rich caramel and toasty vanilla accent which is just divine! Not to mention the semi sweet honey, roasty malt, earthy tobacco and dark chocolate for days! This Eclipse stuff really is the ducks nuts!
Flavour: It’s incredible how smooth it is for a beer its size. Yeah we get the warming booze, bourbon, rich toffee and caramel and the roasted malts but it’s pleasant and remarkably well balanced. Tasting the vanilla, honey and woody oak as it rolls through the mid towards the less approachable yet luscious finish which endures brilliantly.
Mouthfeel: Silky smooth with just a touch of warmth (11% AbV). Glides down the throat with ease! Medium-full body.
Overall: This Eclipse series really is top of its class and the list of medals that span over the last decade are only testament. They’re fun, well marketed and most importantly…absolutely delish! We can not fault this it’s simply outstanding.