Imperial Brown Ale
Brasserie Dunham

Beer is relatively dark brown, a bit of red, with a large, thick looking beige head. Excellent retention.

The nose is very nice. Nutty, a bit of roasted malt, oak, biscuit, and perhaps some earthy hops.

The oak is extremely prominent in the taste, too much so. A nice flavour but it is overbearing. The beer contributes roasted malt and a nutty flavour. Fairly bitter, particularly for the style. The initial taste seems to carry a very minimal funky flavour, but it disappears almost immediately- whatever it is, I like. Probably my tastebuds playing with me. Alcohol is stronger than one would expect at 8%. A bit harsh.

Fairly high carbonation, full bodied, alcohol is noticeable.

Overall, quite good. I think the barrel effect is a bit much, would be nice if it could be toned down a bit.

500mL bottle into a tulip glass. No freshness date.

A - Pours a dark brown color with red hues, rather clear. The off-white head is very generous, dense, fluffy, very sticky to the glass, and leaves a nice lacing. In other words, very inviting!

S - Malty and hoppy in the same proportion. I pick out some nice caramel/roasted aromas, but the blend is very fresh and floral.

T - The caramel dominates upfront, then balanced with some hop flavors. This makes a very pleasant and complex taste. I pick up liquorice, bitter orange, and some herbal flavors. Oak barrels add a pleasant touch as well.

M - Full body with a medium carbonation (quite active on the palate). Alcohol brings a warming touch at finish and the bitterness stays moderate.

O - Very complex and well balanced, this beer is a great success in my opinion! It stays close to the style and the drinkability is very good. Overall, a bottle I would definitely seek out!