Sierra Nevada 'Narwhal' Imperial Stout

Sierra Nevada 'Narwhal' Imperial Stout 2014. 10.2% abv. 60 IBU. Black in color with two fingers of rich beige head, almost like whipped cream. Outstanding retention and lacing. Complex nose of roasted grain, ground coffee, cocoa powder, raisins. Front taste is aggressive with its deep flavors of roasted - almost burnt - malt, dark chocolate, black coffee. Aftertaste is just as big with smoked grain, bitter fruit, and a long sustain of bittersweet chocolate and strong coffee, and an enveloping alcohol taste. Full, big body. Mouthfeel is sticky, creamy, thick.

This is an incredible, world-class beer, one of the best imperial stouts I can recall. The rich, complex flavor profile is there from the aroma, to the first sip, down to the bottom of the glass. The grain roast is aggressive yet balanced, and the aftertaste is long and strong. Highly recommended.

From the brewery:

"A malt-forward monster, highlighting the depths of malt flavor. Narwhal Imperial Stout is inspired by the mysterious creature that thrives in the deepest fathoms of the frigid Arctic Ocean. Featuring incredible depth of malt flavor, rich with notes of espresso, baker’s cocoa, roasted grain and a light hint of smoke, Narwhal is a massive malt-forward monster. Aggressive but refined with a velvety smooth body and decadent finish, Narwhal will age in the bottle for years to come."

[source: sierranevada.com]