Existent
another fantastic brew from Stillwater. Dark as night with a tan head that leaves attractive lace. nose is roast, toast, chocolate, coffee, vanilla, spice (star anise? something woody/barky?) and fruity, citrusy, piney, earthy hops. what i like so much about stillwater's beers, and his "dark" beers especially, is that somehow, he gets dark flavors to express themselves brightly (if that makes sense). the roast is right up front and the bitter from the hops and roasty (almost smoky) malts intermingle beautifully. chocolate, coffee etc in the middle and spiced roast at the end. picking up just a touch of peppery tingle too as it starts slick and ends up dry and crisp. clean finish on medium-full body that has just enough conditioning to really carry it. extra points for mouthfeel because he gets these flavors to "pop" like they do in such an elegant, delicate way. the mouth isn't left feeling coated and oily, and the stomach isn't left feeling bloated like so many other beers that touch on the same profiles. related to saison, related to black ipa, related to stout/schwarz. just like the rest of his beers; one foot in tradition and one foot in outer space. dig it. thanks brian. more please!!!