B.O.R.I.S. The Crusher - 5 Year Barrel-Aged
Hoppin' Frog Brewery

While appearing like a classic BORIS with a glossy black body and a dense, very dark tan head, you could already tell as it came to the bar that it was more viscous than usual, as the head died fairly quickly compared to normal. I mean, FIVE years?! Holy shit!

BORIS is notoriously stubborn in taking on barrel characteristics, but right off the bat this coats the palate with mocha, thick and heavy vanillin, as well as damp dark oak threads with Raisinets for days. Reisen and an almost cinnamon-spiced date offer support as it warms.

Reduced to an amazing viscosity, and completely devoid of its telltale hoppy bitterness, this is hands down the best stout I've had by Hoppin' Frog, and that's saying something. Though it coats the palate up front, it does so without being too sticky or gloppy, coming to a tannin dry finish and exhaling a hint of smoky char.

Incredible.