Thursday, May 31, 2007

Beer Tasting: Brooklyn Black Chocolate Stout

two days in a row with another one that's getting a bit out-of-season, but it was taking up room in our dusty draftbin. whaddya gonna do? I could enjoy this any day of the year!


The Beer: Brooklyn Black Chocolate Stout
Style: Imperial Stout
Reviews: Beer Advocate Rate Beer
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Packaging & Date Stamping: 12 oz. brown bottle; winter 06-07 bottling stamp

From where & how stored: Purchased at Total Wine in Dec. '06 and stored at 52F since then

Pricing: $8.99 per 6-pack

Availability: Winter seasonal

ABV, IBU, and Other Available Stats: 10.1% ABV; 1.096 OG; 24.0 Plato

Awards: World Beer Cup (2002 Silver; Imperial Stout)
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Bryan's Notes
The Look:
- thick, lumpy tan head that hangs around forever
- serious lacing
- enticingly dark brew

The Aroma:
- whiffs of rich chocolate mixed with some roasted coffee/mocha
- ripe fruit barely noticeable

The Taste:
- dark chocolate, roasted flavors
- a bit of overripe cherry too
- hints of hop bitterness too
- smooth, moderately thick mouthfeel
- just a kick of carbonation, but not too much
- bit of bitterness in the finish, but certainly not overwhelming

The Verdict: - Taste lives up almost exactly to the aroma....chocolate, cappuccino, very ripe even burnt fruit (figs?). Such a well-rounded happy drinking experience. A true "big stout". But, big enough that 2, no more than 3, are necessary. (Could it be a "big session" beer?!)

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Ah, the Brooklyn Black Chocolate. One of my perennial faves.

Anonymous said...

Now that is a good goddamn beer. Dark chocolate bitterness, yum.