Fifty Fifty Brewing Co. Eclipse Imperial Stout (Four Roses) Russian Imperial Stout at 11.9% ABV (C$28.34 at Willow Park Wine & Spirits, 650 ml, no packaging date or best before, acquired 28-Aug-2015, reviewed 3-Jul-2018)
Appearance: clear ruby brown with one fat finger of dense beige head, good retention and well-defined soapy lacing. (5/5) Aroma: bourbon, wood, coconut, chocolate. (9/10) Taste: moderate-high sweet, high bitter. (9/10) Palate: medium-full slick body, moderate carbonation, off-dry lingering bitter warming finish. (4/5)
I figured this was likely to have a pretty emphatic edge when young, so I decided to give it some time in the cellar. It might not have actually needed an additional three years, but that’s what it got. (I don’t think I’ll give the other one I have another three.) I was a little surprised at how light the body and carbonation were – not in absolute terms, obviously, but for a big BA stout, this is positively effervescent. Overall, super smooth and drinkable, with surprisingly little bourbon edge (or alcohol presence overall) though the bourbon flavour is very clear. The coconut presence might be surprising, except for the fact that this isn’t my first BA stout where it’s come up – it very much seems to be a thing with big boozy barrel bastards. Good fun, especially if you take your time and sip it. (18/20)
My 259th from the 2010 Edition of 1001 Beers You Must Taste Before You Die, 249th from the 2013 edition, and 273rd combining both editions.
9/10 #1001beers #ryansbooze ryansbooze.com
