AleSmith Brewing Company Barrel Aged Speedway Stout
What the brewers say
“We’ve matured our Russian imperial stout in premium bourbon barrels for up to one year. Notes of oak, vanilla, and bourbon add another level of complexity to this beer’s flavor profile of chocolate, Ryan Bros. Coffee, and roasted barley.”
What our panel thought
Aroma: “Coffee and vanilla, bourbon notes up front with a touch of sweetness and a bit of alcohol in the nose. Some dark fruits, vanilla, and bourbon. Mild barrel flavors emerge as it warms—almond, vanilla, toasted oak.”
Flavor: “Rich chocolate and coffee flavors dance on the tongue, hitting all flavor centers. Medium barrel characters do emerge above the chocolate/coffee copulation, but the complex malt profile is the feature. Caramel and coffee are intricately bound with oak tannins to create this gorgeous palette of flavors. Finish is spicy, earthy, and sweet.”
Overall: “Awesome. Unreal. The coffee was insanely good and this beer is amazing. Dark fruit and chocolate and smooth coffee in perfect balance. Coffee and barrel character create a truly unique and incredible experience. A delicious beer that everyone should seek out.”
