Dark Side of the Park
Barrel & Stave Pour House

Beer Geek Stats
From:
Barrel & Stave Pour House
 
California, United States
Style:
American Imperial Stout
ABV:
12.9%
Score:
+9 ratings needed
Avg:
4.1 | pDev: 0%
Ratings:
1 | reviews: 1
Status:
Active
Rated:
Nov 16, 2025
Added:
Nov 16, 2025
Wants:
  0
Gots:
  0
"Imperial Pastry Stout with Toasted Almonds,Congo Vanilla Beans & Mostra Coffee"
Recent ratings and reviews.
Photo of 2beerdogs
Reviewed by 2beerdogs from California

4.1/5  rDev 0%
look: 4 | smell: 4 | taste: 4.25 | feel: 4 | overall: 4
Gorgeous pour, a black mahogany hue is crowned by a khaki colored head that floats a solid finger of dense fluff. Great retention with light lacing.
Nose is deep and rich with a full coffee roast starting things off. But it's elegant and not bitter. It rounds out and brings in the cocoa notes with a hint of toasted almonds as advertised.
Wow, the flavor follows the preamble and goes deeper. Yes, the coffee notes are upfront but not overpowering. The cocoa comes in, somewhat sweet but not cloyingly so. The vanilla now shows herself, smooth and subtle. As this develops the toasted almonds chime in as a supporting role. All really moves around well allowing for some variety to the experience.
Mouthfeel is thick enough, low carbonation, and a rather slick finish.
Overall, a really solid pastry stout that is sweet enough for style but not too much so. If you like coffee in your stouts this one is a must.
Nov 16, 2025