Goose Island started producing Bourbon County Stout in 1992, making this year the 30th anniversary of this iconic beer. The story of Bourbon County Stout began with Gregory Hall, the former brewmaster of Goose Island. Hall was inspired by the flavors and aromas of bourbon, and he wanted to create a beer that could capture those same characteristics.
In his quest to make the best beer possible, Hall began experimenting with aging beer in bourbon barrels. He sought out the best barrels the bourbon trail had to offer, carefully selecting those that would impart the most delicious and complex flavors to his beer. The result was Bourbon County Stout, a rich and decadent beer that quickly gained a devoted following.
The first batch of Bourbon County Stout was released in 1992, and it was an instant hit. Beer enthusiasts from all over flocked to Goose Island to get their hands on this unique and flavorful brew. The success of the beer led to an annual release, with each year's batch building upon the previous ones.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of experiencing many different vintages of Bourbon County Stout over the years. Each year brings its own unique twist to the beer, with variations in barrel aging, adjunct flavors, and overall flavor profile. It's always an exciting time for beer lovers when Goose Island announces the release of the latest Bourbon County Stout.
One of the things that sets Bourbon County Stout apart from other barrel-aged beers is the careful selection of barrels. Goose Island goes to great lengths to source the best bourbon barrels available, working directly with distilleries to find those that will impart the most desirable flavors to the beer. This attention to detail and commitment to quality is what has made Bourbon County Stout such a beloved and sought-after beer.
The legacy of Gregory Hall and his passion for making the best beer possible lives on in every batch of Bourbon County Stout. It's a testament to his vision and dedication that this beer has become a staple in the craft beer community. Whether you're a seasoned beer connoisseur or just dipping your toes into the world of craft beer, Bourbon County Stout is a beer that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Goose Island started producing Bourbon County Stout in 1992, and this year marks the 30th anniversary of this exceptional beer. Gregory Hall's commitment to using the best barrels from the bourbon trail and his passion for creating a beer that captures the essence of bourbon has made Bourbon County Stout a true masterpiece. As a sommelier and brewer, I can attest to the incredible flavors and complexity that each vintage of Bourbon County Stout offers. It's a beer that continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in the world of craft beer, and I can't wait to see what the future holds for this iconic brew.