Bourbon Barrel Aged Imperial Stout
Drake's Brewing Co.

Aged for 2 1/2 years in Bourbon barrels and served as part of City Beer Store's special barrel aged Drake's event. Thanks so much to the brewer and to City Beer for offering these special beers. This one pours black with a good initial head that fades to a ring that sticks around. A beautiful looking beer. Looks like an Imperial Stout should and the head and carbonation are still very good despite all the barrel time. Smells a bit dusty, and with a light bourbon nose. Most interesting is the Brett that has been picked up from the barrels that adds a tangy sourness that blends interestingly with the Bourbon and roast. Tastes very roasty up front, almost charred, followed by spice, creamy vanilla, and a long roastiness. Nice smooth Bourbon flavor on the finish. The mouthfeel is a bit spicy and a tiny bit sharp. No real sourness comes through here except on the nose. This is probably the most accessible of the 4 barrel aged IS that were served, but not quite as some of the others with fruit and Brett. Mouthfeel is a tad sharp and spicy, but this is a very interesting, complex beer that is worth savoring.