An Imperial Stout aged in Buffalo Trace Bourbon Barrels with Molasses and Rye by Bottle Logic in Anaheim, CA.
Talk about impressive. This massive Stout tips the scales at 13.7% ABV. Pours opaque black with a creamy mocha-colored cap on top.
Aromas come off with notes of rich chocolate, molasses, vanilla, almonds, cigar-box, and booze.
The taste follows the nose perfectly. Starts off with dark chocolate, sweet caramel, coffee grounds, and stone fruits. The middle is akin to the flavors of the spirit which once graced the barrels: Buffalo Trace Bourbon. The finish is where this beer shows off its true elegance. Notes of alcohol, chocolate, slight wood indicators, sweet tobacco leaves, and a nutty, almond-like back-palate brings this tasting experience to a wonderful conclusion.
Silky and creamy structure on the tongue. As the beer warms up, the flavors and aromas are even more impressive. Serve only about 8oz at a time in a proper snifter (or similar glassware) and take your time.
Although it can be enjoyed now, this beer will age gracefully for many years and the additional port and sherry notes will contribute to the complexity. For an even more tantalizing flavor adventure, pair with a "Flor de las Antillas" cigar by My Father Cigars and let the good times roll.
Darkstar November is as black as the vacuum of space, yet the aromas and flavors shine brighter than a Type 1-A Supernova.
Cheers!
-Gilbert "Charlie" Perez, Certified Cicerone®