“Beneath the moon’s baleful glow, you sprint down empty streets, desperate for an escape. Predatory shapes dart behind you, pale faces leering from darkened doorways. Is that merely a shadow? Or something more sinister? Adrenaline pounding in your ears, you sense primal hunger surrounding you. The things that were once human seem to be herding you, savouring your dread as they close in.” 

Glassware: Snifter.

Appearance: Solid black with a billowing head which swells to about three fingers before gradually receding. Nice wavy lace clings to the glass as it ebbs.

Aroma: There was one component about this stout that had us a little hesitant and that’s the chai spices. We’ve been burnt in the past where brewers go ham on the spices and it totally ruins the beer. Thankfully Deeds have used them conservatively here which allows the bourbon/oak and the rich base stout to shine with the chai spices neatly tucked in behind.

Flavour: Delish. They’ve dialled the chai spices up a tad more here but they’re still very much integrated with the rest of the beer. We’re really liking the prominent bourbon oak and the way it works back into the rich coffee, molasses and dark chocolate. The chai is like a delicious dusting on a boozy and rich chocolate mud cake.

Mouthfeel: Slick and oily with a hint of warmth from the 12.4% ABV. Full body and low carbonation.

Overall: Deeds have been a bit up and down in recent times but this one is certainly one of their better BA imperial stouts.