This collaborative Imperial Stout presents a decadent sensory profile shaped by nearly three years of maturation in Old Fitzgerald and Weller Bourbon barrels. The aromatic profile is dominated by an evocative blend of ripe chocolate-covered bananas and charred oak, underscored by the rich, earthy depth of cacao nibs. On the palate, it transforms into a liquid dessert, layering flavors of banana cream pie and vanilla wafers over a robust, roasty malt base. The extended aging integrates a smooth bourbon warmth and sweet vanilla bean notes, resulting in a complex, harmonious masterpiece that balances intense fruitiness with a velvet-dark finish.
Appearance.Jet black and opaque (40+ SRM) with high viscosity resulting in prominent legs. The head is a dense, deep tan with moderate retention, leaving oily lacing on the glass.
Aroma.High intensity. Bold notes of ripe banana and sweet vanilla beans lead, followed by rich dark chocolate and cocoa from the cacao nibs. Secondary aromas of toasted oak, caramel, and bourbon-soaked wood from the Weller and Old Fitzgerald barrels complement a background of roasted coffee and dark fruit.
Taste.Initial impression is extremely rich and sweet, reminiscent of banana cream pie. Mid-palate reveals layers of vanilla wafers, bittersweet chocolate, and dark roasted grain. Hop bitterness is moderate but largely masked by the high residual sugar and adjunct sweetness. The finish is long and warming with lingering notes of bourbon, oak, and caramelized banana.
Mouthfeel.Very full-bodied, thick, and chewy with a velvety, luscious texture. Carbonation is low, enhancing the creamy profile. A smooth, noticeable alcohol warmth is present, well-integrated despite the high gravity.