Double Imperial Crème Brûlée Java Stout
Kuhnhenn Brewing Company

Oh this one's black, black as night. The head is big and noisy, golden brown, and bursts over the top of a Swiftwater snifter before quickly receding to a quarter inch. For all that commotion, the head left minimal spots of lacing above a thin film. By the way, that crackling never stops for the duration.

Alcohol fumes are too high and irritate the nose. Getting past that, there is burnt malt, baker's chocolate, and vanilla. These are all quite strong.

That burnt malt is no joke. It lends a nice, bitter bite. The chocolate is also bitter and dark roasted. Then there's the black coffee and ash. This all leaves me wondering where the crème brulee is to be found. That is just a curiosity because everything else is really good. Regardless of the long, charred-malt finish, sweetness does find a way into the experience.

The body is medium to full with a watery texture. The explosive carbonation is a surprise for the style, but given earlier notice, it makes sense here. Alcohol is right up there and sugar builds on the lips.

This beer may be the antidote to pastry stouts, in spite of the crème brulee moniker. It makes for a decent nightcap.