In a blind tasting by BJCP trained experts, this beer rated
96
Verboten Brewing Pure Imagination
Aroma: “Chocolate, cherry, and coffee with some decent alcohol heat. Rich roasty character of cocoa, coffee, and chocolate. Sweet fruity cherry esters. Dark licorice and burnt sap. The aroma promises the world.”
Flavor: “Sharp black coffee with a serving of brown sugar. The malt complexity is nice, with toast and caramel joining the roast. Smooth. The esters are toned down a little but that’s okay. Good hops flavor. Nuttiness and toffee. Alcohol heat is noticeable in the finish.”
Overall: “An intense beer with wild roasty, sweet notes. I’d only be able to tackle one pint, but I’d enjoy it thoroughly. A larger example of an oatmeal stout, this beer is a bit of a beast. The alcohol heat is significant and the high carbonation slams all the flavors into your palate at once, but the creaminess rounds out the experience well. Nice job.”