Southern Star Black Crack..... It's back!

Have only had it on draft this year and didn't have last years so I can't comment there but this years is very chocolaty with a background bourbon presence. The bourbon is definitely there but subtle and in the way of actual bourbon flavor to me instead of the full barrel flavor like vanilla/toasted oak taste. Ya it probably was a bit thin compared to some BA stouts but it wasn't something that stopped me from enjoying it. I was planning on getting a bottle or two but after having it on tap I plan on getting 4-5 bottles so take that for what you will.

 

Just to double down on what others have mentioned, Champ, in particular. This isn't a RIS or IS. The base beer is an American Stout (Nevermind it's BA category, it's straddles the Stout/IS line). I have yet to have a lower Abv Stout that isn't thinned out by time in a barrel and slightly overwhelmed by the booze. If you don't go in expecting it to be as chewy as it is in the can or, like me, it's Nitro version (which is just a great way to present it IHMO) and you like bourbon it'll do. Catch it for 9.99-11.99 and it's a winner.

FWIW I did like Revolver FBO a little more...I expect many other would disagree but I liked that they went with a wine barrel, it didn't suffer from being thinned out (it was blended with ~60% aged...forget if Black Crack is or not) and it added a different dimension than other BA Stouts.

 

Actually, I have always liked Buried Hatchet as an Export Stout (which is what the beer was originally intended to be if I recall correctly), and I really enjoyed the Anvil Bourbon Buried Hatchet on tap years ago. Before it really had a name. I like and drink bourbon a lot as well. Just wasn't impressed by last years version, that is all. My reviews are pretty clear on all beers involved

 

Having it now, and I must say it's definitely worth the $24 I spent on 2.

 

zero barrel. mucho brownies.

 

For those looking in Dallas, CM Lovers still had some around 4pm today...

 

I have had 2 now from 2 different places and this batch is outstanding, keep them in the fridge because their is no way this beer can get in better than it is drinking right now.

 

I really hope this beer gains some traction. I actually got a few this year and I'm hoping they will have some trade value. I think the Black Crack can compete with some of the BB stouts on a national level. Just need to get some hype out there!

 

I will give some out as extras but mostly I will drink them.

 

I think this is what a lot of BAers complain about. Hoarding great [local] beer, hoping the hype train picks up, so that you have trade bait. What happened to buying one or two that you can enjoy and leaving the rest on the shelf for other beer advocates to enjoy? Personally I am hoping I can find one bottle because it sounds like something I would like to drink.

On a more positive note, I do like your profile pic

 

because some of us drink actual whiskey?

 

Agreed...there is plenty of barrel IMO.

I like this beer, but I don't think it's great. A good barrel aged stout for a decent price that's fairly available. I'm glad we're getting more of these to choose from these days in Black Xantus, Uinta Labyrinth, and Black Crack.

I do hate the name though.

 

I thought the barrel was also very minimal. Its good, but its a little bit thin for a stout. Thought it was good, but not great.

 

I would not call it "hoarding." It's just wishful thinking that one of our local brewers gets some recognition for a great product. I will enjoy it for sure! I only picked up 6 of them. 2 for me (one to have now and one to age), 2 for my regular swap friends in CO and AL, and maybe the other 2 for a share or future trade. The a-holes who buy it by the case and ruin it for everyone else are the hoarders (ie Pumpkinator). If it gets no trade value, no big deal.

I'll even swap a bottle with you if you want, just BM me. I'm in Houston.

Just remember...there is no mercy in this dojo.

 

i want to taste the base beer, but i dont want to feel like i bought an "aged" version that tastes the same for double the amount of money.

 

If anyone is still looking for this north side, I saw two cases at Hubble and Hudson in the Woodlands a couple of hours ago.

 

Yes, definitely a good BA stout to introduce to new craft beer lovers. And yup, the price is ridiculous.

 

I asked one of the brewers and he said Garrison barrels for 8 months. Cheers!