Aroma: “Medium strong roasted malt, some chocolate notes. Low spicy hops aroma. Some light earthy notes from esters and aging. Fruity esters—cherry and plum—combine with dried fruits from dark malt.”

Flavor: “Sweeter and less burnt than some Russian imperial stouts. Lingering semisweet chocolate flavor in the aftertaste. Alcohol hides until you swallow, then reveals itself. Flavors of dried raisins, chocolate, and coffee. Some pleasant oxidation character, and a warming finish. A bit of roast astringency sticks out on the swallow giving it a husky character.”

Overall: “The nose promised so much, but the flavor didn’t quite deliver. Too dry for the level of roast and there’s a harsh note on the swallow.”