Small Batch Ale Barrel Aged Summer Stout
White Birch Brewing

 

The bottle opens with a mighty pffft and starts itself auto pouring but being on the ball such as I am I didn't lose a drop. Pours a solid black with a huge fluffy tan head that sits on top forever. Aromas of chocolate, coffee, and roasted grains are melded with some nice vanilla oaken notes as well as a vinous fruity cherry tartness that is a step away from a brett infection. The flavor is lightly oxidized chocolate and coffee with a very vinous red wine note. Tart cherries, vanilla, and a hint of bourbon round out the flavors nicely. Medium body with a spirited level of carbonation and a sweet, tart, bubbly mouthfeel. This is an interesting beer, but at 8.5% abv I'm not sure what makes it a summer stout. This tastes pretty good, my meager palette enjoyed it.