Look
This beer is black – no other word describes it. Holding it up to a bright light, it is still completely opaque. It has a brown head, and leaves some lacing. I really like the brand that Dechutes have built for this beer. The label and the wax seal made it feel very special.
Smell
I had sourness, a hint of bourbon, some chocolate, and quite a bit of oak in the aroma of this beer. Also some molasses and fruitiness.
Taste
The flavour profile starts with a big oak taste and lots of sweetness, followed by cocoa, coffee, and molasses. I also had some alcohol warmth, and could taste the bourbon from start to finish. The finish is quite burnt, a mix of coffee and roast malts.
Feel
Very smooth, thanks to the bourbon and oak aging. The body of this beer is not just ‘full’, it is better described as thick or syrupy. As I mentioned, I got quite a bit of alcohol warmth, which was not unexpected for a beer which is 11% ABV.
Drink
Quite drinkable, but I couldn’t have more than a glass or two. This is the sort of beer that I could savour for a few hours (especially as it comes in a nice big bottle).
This was the 2009 vintage, which is not designed to be consumed until November 2010 – I think that by then it will be a very different beer. If you can, I strongly recommend tasting this beer.