Dark Cloud Cover
Vault Brewing Company

Poured out of a pint can and into a clear glass Imperial pint mug, the visual is much like a standard Stout. The color is just a tint more toward brown than black coffee brown, but the head marks the biggest difference. It's tan and foamy. Many Russian Imperial Stouts have a tan head, but most have modest heads, likely a by-product of their high ABV. The aroma of roasted malt is at least matched by a bourbon character, as this has been aged in bourbon barrels. The taste isn't close to one that resembles a stout with a shot of bourbon dropped into it. Somehow, the barrel aging reduces the sharp bitterness of the roasted barley, common among many in the category. Some may find the burnt coffee-like bitterness missing, especially during the finish. That's understandable, since it is the normal aspect of style. But this doesn't just take that aspect away without exchanging something for it. The tannins from the oak barrels bring an additional level to the flavor. What makes this a standout is its mouthfeel. This is super smooth, rich and almost devoid of any indication of its high ABV. A truly remarkable brew that goes down way too easily for the general immediate welfare of its consumer. The rings of lacing that indicate each time the glass lost some of its contents
come to look beautiful as the vessel empties.