Samuel Smith's Imperial Stout
Initiating my Tripel Karmeliet tulip (thanks Dan!). A: Pours an opaque black color with mocha head that kisses the glass as it fades away fairly quickly, leaving a thin, soapy layer on top. S: Has a big chocolate nose, as well as cherries, coffee, roasted barley, and just a touch of alcohol. Just about everything I expect out of an imperial stout. T: Chocolate. With plenty of fruit on the side. A mild smokiness resides within, alongside just a hint of roastiness. I love the nesses :) Melds together like it's supposed to. M: Just so smooth at every turn except the grand finale. A little dry for me. I would love this to leave just a little bit more on the tongue, but I feel almost like I need to drink a ton of water after each sip. Other than that, almost perfect. D: As it barely crosses over into imperial territory, the alcohol content is just right. If it didn't finish so dry, I would drink it all night long. Next to Old Raspy, this is my standby.