I've noticed in many imperial stouts a certain "nutty" aroma but I don't know if that's the usual/common descriptor; it's the first thing that comes to my mind when I smell it though. It's usually pretty elusive, I pick it up most strongly when I swirl the beer when it's at or near room temp—like many other aromas I guess. Anyway, it's kind of earthy, almost savory—reminds me of something else, but I can't quite put my finger on it. Peanut butter maybe? Not bitter, dark fruit, coffee or chocolate—but it's probably closest to chocolate. I'm hoping some of you know what I'm talking about. It's one of my favorite beer aromas, like, ever. I'd also be interested to learn where this aroma comes from: the malt? the hops? combination? Cheers!
Kind of like a malted milk ball? If so, then yes, it's a high gravity malt characteristic. I was just enjoying some Brooklyn Black Chocolate Stout last night and am pleased to see that it still has that character in spades.
I think it comes from roasted barley, if your very descriptive portrayal made my scent memory flash on the right aroma. I too find it a favorite smell in big stouts.
I believe cavedave is correct. I have always thought the smell definitely came from the roast. For me it is like getting a hint of roasted peanuts, which I love, into my favorite stouts. Definitely is a huge factor why my favorite style is the big stouts I could just smell my beer all night.
TongoRad: Yes, kind of like that, but I think a malted milk ball is a little more fruity. cavedave: "flash" is a good word, as I often just get a quick "flash" of this aroma when I swirl the glass, and then just as quickly it's gone. Like I said, can be elusive. fishtremble: Roasted peanuts is pretty close, yes. But obviously there aren't any nuts in my beer, that's what makes me curious where this aroma comes from. ChadQuest: Haven't had Nutella in years, maybe I'll pick up a jar. I'd love to have this flavor/aroma on some toast in the morning without having to open a bottle of Yeti. Thanks all!
i sometimes think that a combination of roasted malt and faded hops can give off a subtle roast/earthy smell. perhaps what you are smelling is the combination of a few flavor components of the beer rather than an aroma attributable to single ingredient.
Calling it savory makes me think you might be picking up some umami-type thing, although I'm not sure how that works with smell. I know some beers have a strong umami taste, but I'm not really sure what kind of correlation there is with style. (Although the ones I've noticed it in have all been darker.)
Walnuts, pecans, macadamia and almonds all can have a buttery/savory flavor. You might also want to try sunflower or sesame seeds. CHEERS!
