Goose Island Baudonia
Price $9 8 oz snifter at Local Option in Chicago
Style: 13E Russian Imperial Stout
14% ABV
Rating:99/100
This Imperial Stout is the latest Fulton and Wood release
from Goose Island (Released in late 2012).
A collaboration from Brewmaster Brett Porter and John Laffler.
Baudonia is the fungus that naturally grows on the bottom barrels of the
barrelhouse, which this beer was aged in.
Goose Island took their Bourbon County Stout and aged it in these unique
barrels, lending some interesting results.
Appearance: Slightly
more carbonated than other Bourbon County releases this year. Head retention seems slightly better as
well. Small dark brown creamy head. So thick and so dark, no visible light makes
its way through.
Aroma: Massive aromas
highlight this delicious beer. Caramel,
chocolate, coffee, roasted malt come through at first. Dark fruits are evident as well. These aromas lend way to the bourbon and
vanilla characteristics from the barrel.
Slight alcohol aromas are present as well.
Flavor: Dark
chocolate and roasted malts combine with rich bourbon flavors. Funky and fruity undertones set this apart
from Bourbon County Stout varieties. Its
smoother and more drinkable. Without a lot of alcohol and booziness present
this is dangerously drinkable. Strong
roasted malts make up the backend of the taste.
Mouthfeel: The mouthfeel is extremely heavy to be
expected. Slight heat from the alcohol
is present. Velvety creamy texture stays
on the palette for awhile.
Overall: This beer really is a must drink for anyone that
enjoys this style. It is ready to drink
now, which is unlike most Imperial Stouts. The flavor profile for Imperial
stouts exponentially grows with age. Most of the hot alcohol flavors aren’t
present, which is very uncharacteristic of the style. Rich sweetness, boozy flavors, and deep rich
flavors make this beer incredibly complex. Dare I say I preferred this over the
other Goose Island Bourbon County Stouts released this year? Baudonia is Chicago only/ draft only
release. So you need to go to a local
craft beer bar to sample it. At $9 for
an 8 oz snifter its worth every dollar.
