Boulevard Brewing Company Imperial Stout
What the brewers say
“A riff on an imperial stout. Date and plum notes from the Belgian yeast counterbalance the robust grain and coffee flavors. A balanced blend of freshly brewed beer and several barrel-aged beers.”
What our panel thought
Aroma: “Burnt and roasty with oak and vanilla up front then nice supporting notes of sweet malt, sweet chocolate, and dark roast coffee. Dark fruit esters and a hint of alcohol in the nose.”
Flavor: “Fruity, almost Belgian yeast profile. Plenty of oak, vanilla, and tannins. Chocolate and notes of vanilla and bourbon from the oak give way to subtle notes of raisin and caramel. Roasted flavors are restrained, yet help to balance. Alcohol is subdued but evident. Hops flavor is low, grassy, and appropriate. Warmth in the finish adds to the experience of this beer and has pleasant smoothness.”
Overall: “A nice, well rounded barrel aged stout. The sweetness is balanced by the roast character and intermingled well together. Could use a little more body for the style. Oak character is very well balanced, not over-done. Definitely a beer worth seeking out.”
