Goose Islands Bourbon County Brand Stout (2016 ed): Review by @Robyn_Seto

Keeping with the theme of aged beer this month (now deemed “Mature March”), I have chosen Goose Island Beer Company’s 2016 Bourbon County Brand Stout. According to the label, my beer was bottled on September 20, 2016. Four years and nearly three months of aging on this special annual release stout!

Based out of Chicago, Illinois, Goose Island Brewing Co. has produced their Bourbon County Brand Stout every year since 1995. Within their Bourbon County Brand are variations on their base stout. These variations include a cocktail inspired Kentucky Fog Stout and their Carmella Ale, which is meant to mimic the taste of caramel apples. Each year and variation also varies on ABV.

After four years, this beer has virtually no boozy flavor. What remains is a rich chocolate aroma and sweet dark chocolate flavors. As the beer warms, the barrel flavors become more pronounced and add a slight hazelnut flavor as the sip dries. Despite the lack of boozy taste, this stout reminds you of its 13.8% ABV with a generous warmth. Thinking back to having this beer fresh, there is a distinct flavor change. I recall the flavor being more savory and hot on the booze. After four years, this beer has transformed into a delightfully chocolatey treat!

Goose Island’s annual Bourbon County Brand Stout is usually released in November, and is pretty easy to find between Thanksgiving and Christmas. They tend to be pricey (between $14-$30 USD depending on the variation), but they age well. If you should see one in the wild, pick one up to keep for a special occasion down the road!

5/5 Burps