Wild & Crazy Kids
Breakside Brewery - SE Taproom

fobab 2023

 

another monster dark beer blend from these guys, this has some pretty mature beer in it already apparently, and a ton of oak and barrel character, but somehow softer edges than so many of its peers, i think the lactose still coming through from some milk stout in the blend does a lot for this, smooths it over and extends it out, makes it almost gentle at this enormous abv, a nice inclusion. it also seems to me like there could be some barleywine or american strong ale in the mix, some richer caramel and molasses notes in the middle of this, its not all roasted barley, although there is of course a whole heap of that here too. this is slick and thick looking, glassy shine and more head than anticipated for its strength, almost airy looking, chocolate brown, and lasting pretty well. a bit of smoke, pipe tobacco, dark baking chocolate, molasses, raisin, and bourbon, light licorice and black pepper too, maybe some rye somewhere in here as well. the body is almost overwhelming, and the alcohol rises up early too, not harsh but strong, and there is a difference. old oak, specialty dark malts, good whiskey, and maybe a faint vinous fruitiness at temperature. some caramel sweetness in here, but balanced overall with all the back end roast, bitter coffee on the palate with the booze on the swallow. impressive refinement, it moves slow across the palate and evolves well, nice to see one of these without a ton of adjuncts, this is a long way from a pastry beer. breakside continues to impress in everything they do!