Russian Imperial Stout Aged in Iron Smoke Bourbon Barrels
Naked Dove Brewing Company

The shallow, light khaki head is rocky and short lived above shiny, jet black beer. After about a minute, spotty lace is all that remains on the walls of a Pretentious Glass Company Imperial Snifter.

The aroma opens with charred malt. The char is mild, with just enough bourbon to give it character. Faint licorice comes out as it warms.

The bourbon/malt balance holds true in the flavor. Dates and plums are added in the middle, with a light touch of dark chocolate and mild coffee after further warmth. Bitterness and sweetness are neutral overall, with sweetness slight at the beginning and bitterness slight at the end. The finish is modest.

A full body with a silky smooth texture makes for a pleasant environment for the alcohol bite of mild heat. Carbonation is soft and prickly.

I enjoyed this on a relaxes Memorial Day out back. However, I feel it would be better suited to reading or conversation. The Humboldt Fog cheese stood up to the beer, and the beer, likewise, to the cheese.