“A massive, roasted, malt-forward American Trappist take on the Anglo-Russo Imperial Stout tradition.  Luxuriantly frothy foam, waves of coffee, chocolate and caramel sensations, a generous blend of dark fruit flavors.  Intense and robust.”

Glassware: Snifter

Appearance: Impenetrable black with a finely beaded two finger crown. The head holds together well and works a healthy lace down the glass.

Aroma: A lot fruitier than anticipated. Dark fruits, mostly dates/prunes, raisin, fig and blood plum entertain some yeast esters – banana runts, apple/pear and earthy spice. Lashings of toffee and caramel, carob, cookie dough, licorice and roasted dark malts. Undertones of ginger bread, pumpernickel and warming booze for good measure. Complex but very luxurious.

Flavour: Oh yeah…a bit more of an emphasis on the roast, coffee and dark chocolate with the yeasty Belgian accents working in the background. Nice and fruity through the middle but well balanced by a gritty earthy-ness. Hits a real yeasty Trappist ale note late in the piece then finishes roasty, earthy and chocolatey.

Mouthfeel: Nice and full yet really well balanced. Slightly creamy texture with a soft carbonation. 8.7% ABV is reasonably well disguised.

Overall: We’re really digging what these guys are putting out. Being the only American Trappist brewery they have a traditional Belgian perspective but they offer a new world approach to their beers. This Imperial Stout is the perfect example. Keep em coming!