The Northwest Passage
Nøgne Ø

 

Pours a pitch-black coloration with a small, fluffy, mocha-colored head. Smells of roasted, slightly caramelly malt and distinct dark/red fruit, with notes of fig, plum, redcurrant and tannins, as well as lighter chocolate, vanilla and charred oak, Taste is a great balance of roasted, slightly caramelly malt, distinct dark/red fruit notes of fig, plum and redcurrant, as well as some chocolate and lighter vanilla, licorice and tannic, charred oak, with a light, underlying tartness. Finishes bittersweet, with a light tartness and some roasted malt, dark/red fruit and tannic, charred oak lingering in the aftertaste. Smooth mouthfeel with a medium/rich body and medium carbonation.

Interestingly enough, this almost tastes more wine/port than Bourbon barrel-aged, with some tannic accents, and one has to wonder if that's really intended or more of an oxidation character here, while the Chaga mushrooms don't really seem to add a uniquely identifiable character to this either, except perhaps for a certain earthy/musty presence. Nevertheless, some Bourbon notes of vanilla and charred oak remain along with the roasted malt, chocolate and licorice from the base beer. Overall, while I'm not sure if this is really the intended flavor profile, it still makes for a unique, interesting combination of roasted, bitter, tart and vinous notes that is rather enjoyable in its own way.