Bourbon County Brand Cherry Wood Stout 2021 250ml

This specialty release masterfully marries the depth of a stout with the nuanced influence of bourbon barrels and cherry wood. A harmonious balance of dark fruit, rich chocolate, and elegant oak tannins defines its exceptional character. Enjoy this unique vintage, designed to evolve and deepen in complexity over several years.

Tasting Notes

Nose: The aroma is a complex tapestry of dark roasted malt, intertwined with prominent notes of stewed dark cherries, blackcurrant, and a hint of Maraschino cherry. Underlying these are nuances of rich dark chocolate, vanilla bean, and a subtle toastiness from the wood, rounded out by a faint suggestion of almond or stone fruit pits.

Palate: A surprisingly smooth and full-bodied entry immediately delivers on the promise of the nose. The initial sweetness of ripe cherry and berry compote transitions to a more robust profile of bittersweet cocoa, espresso, and toasted oak. A delicate tartness from the cherry balances the richness, while a gentle warming spice – perhaps a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg – emerges, complementing the beer's malty backbone.

Finish: The finish is remarkably long and velvety, gradually fading with lingering impressions of dried fruit, dark chocolate, and a pleasant, gentle woody tannin. The cherry notes persist, evolving into a more mature, almost port-like sweetness, with a subtle dryness that encourages another sip. The slight bitterness from the roasted malt and oak provides a sophisticated counterpoint to the fruit.

About the Distillery

Goose Island Beer Co., founded in Chicago in 1988, is a pioneering craft brewery renowned for its innovative approach to brewing, particularly its barrel-aging program. While primarily a brewery, their acclaimed Bourbon County Stout series utilizes bourbon barrels for aging, imparting rich characteristics typically associated with fine spirits, blurring the lines between craft beer and barrel-aged excellence.