Aroma: “Earthy, slightly spicy coffee notes throughout, with some chocolate and roast beneath in a supporting role. Some tobacco, bubblegum ester, cacao nibs, caramel, mild soy, and vanilla bean as well—it’s like a Tootsie Roll.”

Flavor: “Rich, sweet dark chocolate with cherry and vanilla throughout. Notes of caramel, brown sugar, and dark roast bring out some malted-milk ball flavors. Plenty of vanilla and oak and oak tannins, with a delicate finish of tobacco. The body is quite sweet, but dries out on the finish. This is a very big stout.”

Overall: “Nuanced, balanced, and exactly what I want in a barrel-aged coffee stout. It’s really intense, but without the harsh edges that coffee can have. It’s a nice blend of chocolate, coffee, and dark fruit, and has a touch of lasting sweetness. It’s smooth and delightful—close to perfect.”