Judge’s Review: 86 Rating – Nocturnal Activities by Social Fox Brewing

Imperial Stout | Seasonal | USA

By Dan Preston

Judges Rating: 86
Aroma: 20
Appearance: 6
Flavor: 34
Mouthfeel: 9
Overall Impression: 17

Nocturnal Activities by Social Fox Brewing was judged under the BJCP 2021 Style Guidelines, category 20C, Imperial Stout.
This beer pours a dark brown color, deep walnut color along the edges, which still show good clarity. The dark tan head doesn’t hang around too long, but it’s OK for style as it has a wide range from moderately low to moderately high. The aroma is complex with a plethora of deep notes such as dark roasted coffee beans, chocolate-covered dates, caramel apple, butterscotch candy, black cherries, toasted raisin bread and vanilla with a bit of herbal hops. The flavor brings even more complexity with additional notes of coffee, cocoa nibs, burnt sugar and licorice. It seems like a variety of roasted malts were used and each is present instead of being muddled. Beyond all the malt, there is also some alcohol, that adds some warmth and complexity without being offensive and remaining pretty smooth. There are also some low herbal notes in the semi-sweet finish. This is a delicious example of the style that treads the line between U.K. and U.S. varieties. It’s big and bold and goes wonderfully by the fireplace, whether shared with a friend or kept all to yourself.