Barrel aged Rooster’s Breakfast
Great Adirondack Brewing Company

Pinot noir barrel aged imperial stout. Maple syrup used in the brewing which seems like it mostly fermented out - this drinks mostly dry with only a little perceptible sweetness in the finish once the beer warms a bit. Unsurprisingly served too cold. Actual maple flavor is negligible. Local coffee also added but after barrel aging that’s been tamped down to a large degree.

This was a pleasant surprise overall for me, as the Great adirondack beers have been pretty run of the mill in my experience. Rarely more than good but also rarely poor, generally solid but unexciting and unexceptional. Despite all the additives here it still brings traditional stout characteristics and decent bitterness in the finish, stays away from gimmicks, and has a taut kind of leanness that aids drinkability. Slightly tannic and oaky from the barrel but well integrated, subtly vinous. Minor notes of dark chocolate and fruit. Good stuff.