Ziko’s Rage

Ziko’s Rage by 26th Degree Brewing Co. is being evaluated as an Imperial Stout (Category 20C) from the 2021 BJCP Style Guidelines.

The nose is dominated by rich dark chocolate and dry, hearth-roasted malts. A subtle woodsy hop character and a faint hint of sweetness round out the bouquet, finishing with a creamy, latte-like softness.

This beer pours a deep, opaque obsidian with a dense, frothy dark tan head. Despite the 9.2% ABV, the viscosity is surprisingly light when swirled, though prominent alcohol legs cling to the glass.

The flavor is bold and immediate. Semi-sweet cacao leads into a parched, roasted malt bitterness that defines the finish. The hops are understated, offering a resinous touch of pine and timber. While the typical dark fruit esters, plum, fig, and currant, are currently absent, the fermentation is exceptionally clean. The alcohol is reserved and well integrated, making this deceptively dangerous.

Full-bodied with medium-high carbonation, it avoids the astringency often found in heavily roasted beers, offering a smooth, warming glow that lingers without becoming harsh.

Overall, this is a technical success that hits most of the hallmarks of the style. It feels slightly youthful; a few months in the cellar would likely develop some of the missing fruit dimension and soften the dry finish into a more complex, velvety experience.