Aroma: “A nice, fresh sweetness drives the aroma, with light fruits like apple, plum, dark cherry, light pear, caramelized apple, and raisin. Notes of chocolate, roast, and coffee, with a little oak and maple as well.”

Flavor: “Big sweetness, with moderate caramel and apple (like caramel apples), brown sugar, dark fruit (plum, prune, raisin), and a sweetness that carries through to the finish. The body is creamy and sweet and balances well with the faint smoke character.”

Overall: “This beer is so much fun. The light touches of apple sweetness, apple notes, and brandy throughout are pleasant surprises—at times they disappear, only to reappear later. As the beer warms, the brightness and hint of acidity from the barrels becomes more apparent. The sweetness was supportive, with a bright fruit character that blended well with the malty roasty stout. The intensity makes this one a sipper!”