Imperial Baltic Porter
Saucony Creek Brewing Company + Gastropub

like i always say, the world needs more baltic porter. something about that dry roasted barley in combination with a higher gravity lager yeast really does wonders for the soul. this is a pretty textbook example of the style, meeting all the standard parameters with flying colors, but maybe lacking a distinguishing element of its own. the grain base is where its at, bold bitter roast with hints of coffee in the nose. dry as can be with more of an earthy mineral property in the flavor, gone in the finish with the bakery vibe lager yeast, its a neat combination without a trace of its alcohol strength. its not thin, but its not huge either in terms of body and weight, its right where it should be. i always think these drink a little lighter than stouts of the imperial persuasion, and this one certainly does. a hint of dried fruit, maybe raisin in there right before the finish, and plenty of carbonation to keep it moving. it was really neat to get to try a few beers from these guys this weekend, i missed their gold medal winner, but the three i had were all excellent.