Aroma: “A rich roasty blend of coffee and dark malts, with some maple syrup and dark stone fruit esters—perhaps some banana, too. Hops aromas of rosemary, pine, and juniper berry. A touch of maple and dark chocolate, mild cocoa, and cherry syrup. Paperboard oxidation.”

Flavor: “There’s no doubt that coffee is the main focus of this beer—it dominates that palate start to finish. If you’re able to peel away the coffee, there are some nice chocolate and cherry notes, with a heavy roasted malt presence and a bit of soy sauce. Hairy hops presence. Moderate paper and sherry oxidation, creamy body, and some dark fruit esters of dates and raisins. The 14 percent ABV is relatively under control. Well balanced, with the alcohol and sweetness riding out the bitter aftertaste.”

Overall: “Really fun and tasty. The umami usually gets in the way of most of these monster dark beers, but this is a great example. It’s rich and complex, with a great mix of dark chocolate, coffee, and dark fruit flavors.”