Judge’s Review: 95 Rating – Tiers for Years by Ivanhoe Park Brewing

Imperial Stout | Limited Release | USA

By Richard Wong

Judges Rating: 95
Aroma: 24
Appearance: 6
Flavor: 38
Mouthfeel: 9
Overall Impression: 18

Tiers for Years by Ivanhoe Park Brewing was judged as an Imperial Stout, style 20C, according to the 2021 BCJP Guidelines. 
The pour revealed a pitch black hue, which is standard for this style of beer. It had a nice creamy tan head and long-lasting carbonation in the glass. The aroma was outstanding. It had complex aromas that included dark roasted malts, hints of espresso beans and dark chocolate. The pour and initial taste can be described in one word: wonderful! It had nice, complex dark roasted malts, again reminiscent of coffee and dark chocolate flavors, along with a moderate hop bittering that balanced nicely. This beer also had a nice creamy, milk-like flavor due to the addition of lactose in the recipe. 
While the high alcohol percentage is there at 10% ABV, one could hardly detect that due to the complex and rich flavors associated with this beer. The beer had a medium body and a soft mouthfeel with light carbonation. The aftertaste was smooth, creamy and rich with complex flavors. A nice beer to enjoy heading into the colder season.