Brew Keeper Black Storm
The Brew Keeper

11.5% ABV.

Disclaimer: Most of the reviews here of this beer are under "Black Storm" and claim that the beer is retired; I'm assuming that's why I can't review it there. I recently purchased this beer at a local distributor, but can't attest to when it was bottled. Despite the store name "Cellar Masters," I know this wasn't cellared properly. On to my first BA review.

A: This beer poured an exceptionally dark-brown derived black. Even holding it up to a light, I can only see a ring of brown translucence around the very top of the beer. Not artificially jet-black like some beers, just so ridiculously brown to be almost entirely opaque black. Beautiful. A thick tan head stuck around for a minute or two, dissolving to a ring that hung on for the rest of the beer.

S: Weak. My nose isn't the greatest, but I couldn't pick up much from this beer at all- maybe a hint of chocolate or coffee.

T: Throughout the bottle, Black Storm was absolutely dominated by dark chocolate. Starting colder (~40-45F), hints of coffee and anise were involved. As it warmed through my second pour, roasted hops became noticeable, more as an aftertaste. Finishing at a warmer 55-60F, caramel malt added a sweetness to the bittersweet chocolate and the alcohol warmth finally reared its head. All-in-all, this beer had the major flavors expected out of an imperial stout, but lacked the depth and strength I expected from its 11.5%.

M: Silky-smooth deliciousness. A medium body, comparable to chocolate milk, though I expected much more out of such a robust stout.

D: The medium body and lighter flavors really masked the alcohol content. The chocolate dominance and the sweetness as it warmed make this a delicious desert; coupled with the lack of alcohol heat could make this a pleasant experience for a wide range of palates. Not a session-able beer, but I wouldn't mind a second. Considering its ABV, exceptionally drinkable.

Imperial stouts are my favorite style; I love the common notes of chocolate and coffee, and I really enjoy the alcohol warmth that generally accompanies strong beers. I definitely expected more flavor and greater depth from Black Storm, but I can't complain. All-in-all I really enjoyed it.

Aroma: Moderate fruity esters with some fresh apple aroma...hmmm...Moderate to low chocolate notes. No hop aroma.

Appearance: Jet black opaque pour with a tan pancake batter-like head. Low effervescence noted.

Flavor: Mayple syrup, black licorice, and burnt brown sugar up front. Velvet chocolate ice cream and earthy hop flavors balance out and shine as the beer warms. Finish is clean, sharp, and dry.

Mouthfeel: Medium-full body with medium carbonation. No alcohol heat and slightly creamy. No astringency noted.

Overall impression: A unique, chocolatey Imperial Stout. A definite American slant vs. an English slant. The aroma is a little off and not very inviting but it has good flavor. A decent introduction to a new Ohio brewer...