FiftyFifty Brewing Co. Eclipse Vanilla
What the brewers say
“Lovingly crafted just once a year. Made with the finest malts, hops, fresh mountain water, yeast, and vanilla beans.”
What our panel thought
Aroma: “Moderate coffee, touch of malt sweetness, strong vanilla, moderate caramel, touch of earthy woodsy notes. As it warms, a slight alcohol note starts to present itself. Smells a lot like an alcoholic, chocolate cream soda. Nice strong mocha favoring cocoa nibs over coffee, nice toasty malt adds a touch of Cheerios.”
Flavor: “High vanilla up front, similar to a cream soda, but a quick transition with high molasses that creates a drying effect mixed with a moderate alcohol spike. High caramel and toffee notes as well with a bit of chocolate. Oak adds a sharp tannin edge.”
Overall: “Holy vanilla! Oh, and some alcohol and oak. This is almost root beer/cream soda imperial stout.”