Amundsen Brewery Barrel Aged Upside Down Christmas Cake 2023

Name: Amundsen Brewery Barrel Aged Upside Down Christmas Cake 2023
Brand: Beer
SKU: 65533f381603da9f3391cd63
Availability: OutOfStock
Rating: 4.08 (12 reviews)

Imperial Stout 12.5 º

Amundsen Bryggeri

This decadent Imperial Stout pours like midnight oil, offering a lush sensory journey defined by its 2023 barrel-aged vintage. The nose is a rich tapestry of holiday indulgence, featuring heavy notes of dark chocolate, singed oak, and spiced fruitcake. On the palate, the barrel aging introduces layers of vanilla and toasted coconut that meld seamlessly with intense roasted malts and a complex dark fruit character reminiscent of raisins and figs. Deeply viscous and warming, it balances its significant residual sweetness with a soft, spirit-forward wood character, finishing with a lingering, velvety touch of bittersweet cocoa.

Appearance. SRM 40+; jet black and completely opaque. It supports a small, dense, dark tan head with modest retention. Significant viscosity is evident through heavy 'legs' or sheeting on the glass.

Aroma. High intensity; dominant aromas of bittersweet chocolate, espresso, and charred oak. Secondary notes of vanilla, bourbon-soaked raisins, and festive spices like cinnamon and clove. Alcohol is noticeable but pleasant and vinous.

Taste. Initial impression is intensely sweet and malty, followed by layers of dark chocolate, molasses, and toasted bread. The barrel aging contributes strong vanilla and woody tannins. Medium-high bitterness is present but largely masked by the dense malt profile. The finish is long and sweet with lingering notes of dark fruit, cocoa, and smooth alcohol.

Mouthfeel. Full to very full-bodied with a thick, chewy, and syrup-like viscosity. Carbonation is low, enhancing the luscious and velvety texture. A significant, smooth alcohol warmth glows in the throat without being harsh.

Sensory Profile.