The Bavarian Lodge had a Dogfish Head invasion night a number of weeks ago and I was fortunate enough to try Bitches Brew on draft. Although, I arrived too late to try the 90 minute through the Randall (see pic) the experience was unforgettable nonetheless.
“Brewed in honor of 40th anniversary of Miles Davies album release” I found out this was a blending of 3 different imperial stouts with a single batch of honey beer brewed with gesho root (a type of buckthorn native to Ethiopia).
It poured and looked like straight up thick molasses. It boasted a creamy head that settled and laced. Its hue was deep mocha as the liquid was brown/black like blackstrap molasses. The aroma was heavy with dark unsweetened bitter chocolate, licorice, and chalk full of huge roasted/burnt grains notes. A tiny hint of the 9.0% abv helped to draw out the sweet floral and earthiness of what smelled like heather tips.
Amazingly smooth, yet bitter brunt grains melted in my mouth. It was similar to the Guinness astringent brunt bitterness, but ten times better and not as thick due to the nitro. I had no prior experience with gesho root so all I can say is that there was an earthy almost dirt-like component which was complimented by a sweeter honey flavor (after the many layers of rich stout characteristics). The mouthfeel was not too viscous making it easier to sip. When paired with dark chocolate, this makes for a great dessert beer.
Overall the folks as Dogfish Head put together a very solid brew that defines extreme while retaining an amazing taste.
ABV: 9.0%
Grade: A