Beer pick of the week: Brooklyn Black Chocolate Stout
December 23rd, 2008 by Jeff Holland in DrinkBrooklyn Brewery
Brooklyn, NY
10% ABV
In keeping with this month’s somewhat accidental Beer Pick theme of thick, black, potent beers, this week’s pick is Brooklyn’s luscious take on the Russian Imperial Stout. Like the Baltic porters, these stouts were brewed in Britain for export to the Baltic states and Russia, where they were reportedly a favorite of Catherine the Great. As a woman of legendary appetites, she favored the strong roasted malt bitterness and alcoholic strength. This one knocked me back at first, and I struggled with the burnt flavors and astringent bitterness. However, I found that I had made a rookie mistake in not letting the beer warm up a bit. Straight from the fridge, the chocolate-y notes and pruney sweetness are muted, leaving only the bitter edge. Gradually the more complex notes of chocolate-covered espresso beans, licorice candy, soy, and molasses emerge. The obvious alcohol hits in the nose and in the dark rum-like finish, warding off the cold. Viscous and smooth on the tongue with a long lingering bitterness, this is a big beer that demands respect. For such a potent brew, it is also a relative bargain at $10.99 a six-pack, so if you think Guinness is for wussies, this one’s for you.
(photo by Jeff Holland)
December 23rd, 2008 at 6:03 pm
I had a pint recently (on tap at Thinking Man Tavern).
I appreciate that the chocolate isn’t shoveled in. It’s not overbearing at all. I can’t stand sweet or overly scented novelty beers.