Oaked Coal Train
Coal Creek TAP

a special oak aged version of their wonderful belgian coffee stout, which i was talking up like crazy to my buddy only to learn they didnt have it on tap when we were in, huge bummer, but when i saw these bottles i knew i had to grab one to share with him. this beer didnt need the wood, it was amazing before it, rich roasty coffee with fruity estery belgian yeast, lots of dark grain, sturdy body, heady espresso and mocha layers, and just really different and good, but the oak does take it to the next level, super wood forward, no whiskey or anything, but a ton of that new oak vanilla character, some toasted warmth to it, and a real mellowing vibe now. its so woody i thought it had to be spirals at first, but it could easily be a new barrel not yet used for wine or spirit, i get no additional alcohol element at all here, and the wood is so pungent. it enhances rather than covers up the coffee, which now seems front and center the whole way, fresh, no acid, and with a lot of nuance. the belgian yeast also loves it, as it holds the deepest raisin and cherry aspects, brings a little vinous element out of it, and as complex as this is, its also super cohesive, it all just works so well together. frankly this is unique and wonderful beer, its good in laramie, but it would be good in any major beer city around the world too, expert quality, very original, masterfully done. absolutely top notch, one of my favorite beers from my recent trip to wyoming, and among the best beers ive ever had from the state!