KBS sighting - Chicagoland (2017)

Ardmore Station posted that they got their shipment in today, for anybody in the burbs around that area.

 

I just posted in another thread but in Chesterton, IN at Pats they received a lot of cases. Got a 750 and 12 oz. Valparaiso gets theirs tomorrow.

 

For those that have already sampled the 17 kbs, opinions/ thoughts on this years batch.

 

I had one two nights ago, it was just alright. It's cool that I was able to snag a 4-pack, but after tasting it, I wouldn't be the slightest bit upset if I couldn't get any. I didn't get any coffee flavor out of this year's batch, and barely any barrel - mainly dark chocolate, with a slight hint of bourbon barrel on the end. I enjoyed 2016 KBS much more.

 

The last couple years I have realized I like KBS best with 6-12 months on it. I think the coffee, chocolate and barrel components really come together much better at that point. I did a 4 year vertical last year (I think it was '12, '13, '15 and '16) and preferred '15 the best. I did a 3 year vertical this year ('15, '16 and '17) and preferred '16 the best.

 

I thought the same, with the exception being I got coffee and lots of it. Maybe because I'm not a coffee drinker and am more sensitive to coffee flavors? Also agree with Croush, that this beer does well with some time on it.

 

Fair points - and I'm definitely going to throw the remaining 3 bottles in the cellar next to the 3 I already have down there from 2016. I'll do a side-by-side later in the year to compare the 2 years.

 

If anyone is still looking, whole foods in West Loop has a bunch of cases.

 

Whole Foods Naperville got their's in today. 22.99/4 pack......they have 750's too, but not sure price.

 

Binny's was my most expensive trip for KBS so far.

 

This is the first year in a while that I've completely passed on KBS. I like it, but I just can't rationalize spending $6/bottle on it. I'd probably buy one if I found a place selling singles.

 

If you can't rationalize 50 cents an oz for a top BA stout, you're soon to be priced out of the craft beer market altogether. I'm guessing you aren't aware Parabola is now $11-$12 for that same 12oz bottle or that Mikerphone is charging $14 for an IPA bomber. I can understand balking at the crazy markup on the KBS bombers ($22), but the KBS 4packs are still very reasonable for a consistently world class BA stout from one of the country's top breweries.

 

Yeah hard pressed to find many BA stouts in 12 oz formats, let alone any good ones. Schlafly Ibex Cellar, CW, and Bells Black Note only other ones that come to mind.

 

Sadly, this might be the most true thing I've read in a while. I like BBA stouts but they're clearly becoming a special occasion splurge, as opposed to a regular purchase. It also depends on the total amount I'm spending. A $6 single and a $24 four-pack are the same price per oz, but I have a harder time fitting the latter into my budget.

Unfortunately, I'm well aware, and I'm passing on a lot of those as well, even though I do really like them. I'll probably get a couple of Mike's beers here and there if I'm having a party or BBQ, as it seems easier to justify as a hosting expense (kinda like spending a little more on higher quality steaks or sausages). I doubt I'll buy any for personal consumption, though.

 

I agree. I think this year is very good for similar reasons: coffee + dark chocolate tied in with good barrel character. I wasn't the biggest fan of '16, so this year's batch reminds me more of '15.

 

I haven't cracked a bottle yet but had '17 on tap. once it warmed up a little bit, a lot more flavor appeared. I enjoyed it despite some bad reviews I heard.

 

To those still looking for KBS in the burbs, I was told Berkots has their KBS. Can't speak for all stores, so good to call first. Also, one four pack per limit. Cheers

 

How much?