Goose Island Baudonia

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.