Big Bear Black Stout

Deep, dark, and punishingly intense, this is yet another exemplary beer from the folks at Bear Republic. This beer has a rich, saturated black color that seems to absorb light, with a rocky, light brown head providing a nice visual counterpoint. The aroma is punctuated with strong notes of cherries, berries, milk chocolate and a touch of licorice. Rick complimented this beer’s chocolate perfume and roasted coffee aromas, while Pete applauded the malted milk ball and lightly citrusy hop notes. The flavors are amazingly integrated for such a hefty brew, with dark chocolate, espresso bean, toffee, roast and fruit flavors all working together without any one of them being overbearing. Underneath it all lurks a considerable alcohol punch shrouded in malty sweetness. Hop bitterness is a little lower than expected but is buttressed by the roasted malt acidity to keep the beer from being overly sweet. The judges all loved this beer, and their comments ranged from Tim’s, “The hops are like icing on a rich malt cake,” to Lee’s “Imperial Stout lovers, start your engines.” This is an exceptional beer that should be in any properly stocked beer cellar.