Chernushka
Atwood Farm Brewery

Appearance is very dark brown with amber on the edges. Modest bit of foam in the goblet. Smooth and unctuous on the tongue but not overly sweet. I don't taste much bitterness, but there is an edge. This is quite interestingly flavored. I am surprised to see mushrooms on the list, but there is an earthy tone and the vanilla is not very forward. The Port barrels seem to come through, though. Overall this is a well-made strong dark beer with some unusual flavors. From the 500 ml bottle purchased at Skagit Valley Coop. No apparent date.

Poured into a Fremont small snifter. Pours a very dark reddish mahogany brown, appearing opaque in the glass with a thin khaki head that dissipates to patches with light lacing. Aroma of dark toasted malt, Port, licorice, bakers chocolate and oaky vanilla. Flavor is dark toasted malt, Port, dark dried fruit, bakers chocolate, licorice, oaky vanilla and hints of red wine tannins. Medium bodied with moderate creaminess. A unique, interesting and quite drinkable Port barreled stout. It almost tastes like a blend of Port and a deep malt big stout; much more flavor than I'd expect from just barrel influence. In fact, the fortified wine character is somewhat dominant. Generally, I'm not a big fan of vinous flavors in my stouts, but I have enjoyed Port and other fortified wine barreled ones. The flavors here are nicely integrated. Not getting much vanilla per se, but there is a typical oak barrel vanilla/wood note. There was a fleeting ruby note as I poured, but I could not see it in the filling glass, and that added to its appeal. This turned out quite nicely and makes me even sadder that this is one of the last beers from Atwood as they slowly clear out their cellar. Although they make a lot of styles that are not at the heart of my favorites, like wild and other tart farmhouse ales, I've always been a fan and enjoyed their interesting offerings when they fit my tastes. This is a very nice way to see them off on their next adventure. Thanks.