Aroma: “Strong bourbon, with lots of vanilla, chocolate, oak, and caramel. A little mint as well, with some light black licorice, plum, cherry, and date.”

Flavor: “Assertive bourbon, supported by the malt sweetness. Vanilla, oak, and oak tannins, with some chocolate and caramel in the background. It’s smooth and rich, with mouth-filling carbonation and a bit of alcohol presence. Dark fruity flavors of cherry, raisin, and plum as it warms. Finishes with a chocolate sweetness and a mild alcohol burn that lingers.”

Overall: “Very bourbon-forward. The oak tannins are a bit strong and might be a bit much for some, but the sweetness of the beer might balance it well enough for others. The vanilla, oak, fruity esters, and chocolate make for a complex, if a bit barrel-heavy, imperial stout. This is a great beer for a cold night with a touch of snow.”