The Bruery Share This O.C. (2017) Imperial Stout at 11% ABV (C$16.99 at Willow Park Wine & Spirits, 750 ml, packaged on 7-Mar-2017, acquired 4-Aug-2017, reviewed 31-Dec-2017)
Appearance: near opaque black with a hint of brown relief at the margins, two fingers of creamy tan head, good retention and moderate soapy lacing. (5/5) Aroma: vanilla, cocoa, citrus zest. (8/10) Taste: moderate-high sweet, moderate-high bitter. (8/10) Palate: full creamy body, moderate-soft carbonation, sweetish warming finish. (4/5)
Nothing subtle about this whatsoever, but it works well. Upon decapping, there’s an initial whiff of orange zest that seems to then subside, but makes itself known later in the finish as a slightly oily bitterness. In between there’s rich cocoa nibs and velvety vanilla, which though sweet, are well balanced by the big bitterness for an even-handed overall effect. The huge ABV doesn’t play a role until the glass starts to look a little empty, at which point typing starts to become a little more challenging than it normally is. Good fun, even if I do have to share it! (16/20)
8/10 #ryansbooze ryansbooze.com
