Big White Cloud - Blend I
Root + Branch Brewing

Had it on tap at the brewery and it was delicious. Pours as black as ink with a 1 finger thick tan/brown head that faded slowly and left decent lacing. The aroma and taste were loaded with dark chocolate, vanilla, bourbon, cocoa powder, dark fruit, milk chocolate, faint burnt coffee and charred malts - this was well balanced, hiding the booze relatively well while trailing with some bourbon in the finish. I came in for a few 4 packs to go but couldn't pass this up and I'm very glad I treated myself to a glass since it was great.

 

 

Drinking: Pours like motor oil with inky blackness, crowned by a dense, tan head. Viscous without being obscenely reduced.

Aroma: Notes of delicate vanilla, intertwine with the deep, Stygian dark chocolate character. A slight whisper of cherry and toasted wood provides a preview of this beer’s barrel history.

Flavor: Really impressive balance. The fruity vanilla, dances with the bitter, dark chocolate, creating a harmonious contrast. A sprinkle of Nestle Quik powder and strong finish of bourbon-derived dark fruits lend a complex, boozy warmth. The coffee note, adds depth and richness, and the subtle black licorice adds an interesting twist at the end without overpowering anything.

The mouthfeel is rich and dense, yet surprisingly dry. The alcohol, while present, is well-integrated, providing warmth without overwhelming the flavors.

Definitely one of the better barrel/fresh stout blends I’ve had in a while. Root+Branch continues to crush it.