“Inspired by the confederation of merchant guilds that dominated trade in the Baltic and North Seas for 300 years, this beer is the coalescence of a Cognac Barrel-aged Baltic Porter, a Brandy Barrel-aged Imperial Stout, coconut, cinnamon and vanilla beans. Merchant sailors from London to Königsberg would be pleased indeed.”
Glassware: Snifter.
Appearance: Pitch black with a short brown head which quickly forms a collar. Reasonable lacing for the lack of retention.
Aroma: Huge barrel expressions – damp musty oak that hasn’t seen the light of day for years with the brandy offering lovely dark fruity notes alongside rich toffee and subtle maple syrup. Loving the addition of coconut, vanilla and cinnamon…although mild they go a long way to filling out he nose. Tonnes of licorice, dark chocolate, coffee, ash and chocolate brownies. Incredible depth.
Flavour: Just a big melting pot of dark and roasty malts – molasses, coffee, dark chocolate, licorice, charred oak and truffle. Beautifully (but delicate) brandy/cognac accents hit a port-like sweetness with the damp musty barrels also getting a look in. Cinnamon, vanilla, toasted coconut and red peppers building late and reaching well in to the raw, roasty and decadent finish.
Mouthfeel: Surprisingly lighter than anticipated. It’s not thin…more oily and slick with low Co2. Amazing feat considering the 11.2% ABV.
Overall: Once again Cigar City bring the goods, these guys are the masters of raw and aggressive impy stouts. It’s quite similar to Hunah so anyone who’s had that experience should know the level of quality here. Well in CC!