One of my favorite aspects of sampling beer is finding a new brewery that I have never tried before. This happened in September when I tried Hoss by Great Divide out of Denver Co. Since then I have tried a couple more of their brews and have not been disappointed. They produce some amazing beers (not to mention some sweet label artwork).
The beer under scrutiny today is one from their line of Imperial Stouts. They have 4 such stouts; the original Yeti, Oak Aged, Espresso Oak Aged, and Chocolate Oak Aged. I’m definitely going to be trying all of them at some point, but for now we’ll focus on the Oak Aged Yeti.
Since most Imperial Stouts are very robust, hearty, heavy, and high in ABV they can come across a little abrasive for beginning beer enthusiast. Don’t worry! After you have a few you taste buds will, over time, learn to cope with the flavor overload. Throw an Imperial Stout into an oak cask for a number of months and you’ve got yourself a mellowed out more enjoyable beer. From what I have gathered most Imperial Stouts are aged in Bourbon barrels which lend an amazing flavor profile and in my opinion aid in softening the beer very well.However, Oak Age Yeti is simply a plain oak barrel so if you’re not a Bourbon fan you will not have to compete with those flavors to enjoy this delicious brew.
It is massive to say the least. Presented with billowing tan/khaki head and pouring pitch black I knew I was in for a real treat. It had a very smooth vanilla, oaky, burnt, and roasted grain aroma. Chocolate and coffee paired with some sweeter toffee notes are present as well. Basically, it smelled rich, full-bodied, and creamy and it tasted no different. You could tell it was 9.9%, but the oak aging did a great job of bringing other flavor to the forefront than just the alcoholic warmth. Thick beers like this one are wonderful with rich chocolaty desserts, cheeses, and lest I forget…they compliment the occasional cigar.
ABV: 9.5%
Grade: A