Barrel Aged Ancora (2022)
Three 3's Brewing Co.

Poured from 500 ML bottle into a snifter at 60°. It pours a very dark walnut - nearly black - with a half finger of creamy, medium-mocha head and modest lacing. The fragrant nose includes cocoa, caramel, brown sugar, molasses, honey, nutty char, and the faintest whiff of bourbon. The flavor has depth and complexity. It opens with burnt coffee, dark chocolate, and brown sugar. There is also a strong earthy, nutty bitterness. As I sip I can also taste the honey. The influence of the Knob Creek whiskey is evident but it doesn't overpower the base stout. In fact, the taste keeps improving as the Stout settles and warms in the glass. There is a decisive, dry bitterness at the finish. The mouth feel is good and thick and creamy with lite carbonation, and the 11% ABV is appropriate for a barrel-aged stout but it doesn't come across as overly boozy. That said, it's definitely a sipper. Overall, this version of Ancora is very good. The brewer exhibited a deft touch and understanding of barrel aging. I hope that there are more bottles left next time I visit Three 3's.