Good Boy Stout - Laird's Applejack Barrel
Ghost Hawk Brewing Co.

2024 release. Poured from 750 ML bottle into a stout glass at 56°. It's nearly black with cola hues at the bottom of the glass and it sports a creamy, light mocha-colored head with good retention and a thick film of lacing. The smell is primarily earthy with roasted malt, dark chocolate, caramel, nutty char, and tobacco smoke. Only as it warms do I notice the scent of brandy, which adds additional sweetness. There is a much greater chocolate presence than I anticipated. It's rich, sweet dark chocolate. There are also notes of burnt coffee, charred nuts, and earthy char. The impact of the Laird's Applejack barrel aging is surprisingly delicate but it adds depth and richness to the taste. There is little bitterness except at the very finish. The flavors blend very well. The mouth feel is a little liter than I'd hoped but the carbonation is appropriate and it drinks big for 12% ABV. Overall, this version of Good Boy Stout is impressive. I haven't had the base RIS, Siberian Solace, but I'll wager it's quite good, as well. I may have to find the excuse to go back and buy more bottles.

I had the 2024 version aged in Laird's Apple Jack barrels. They age each year's Good Boy Stout in different types of barrels. In the past, Jamaican rum, mezcal, etc. Good Boy is essentially barrel-aged Ravendark, Ghost Hawk's signature stout. This brew pours like jet-black syrup, lending it a meatier mouthfeel than Ravendark. 2024 has a distinct Apple nose and flavor, along with oak. The coffee and cocoa of Ravendark also comes through. Only small complaint is that booziness creeps in as the beer warms. But still, an excellent choice for a midwinter sipper.