As an expert sommelier and brewer, I am thrilled to discuss the beer that only comes out on Black Friday – Goose Island's Bourbon County Stout. This iconic beer has become synonymous with the day and has played a significant role in transforming Black Friday into a beer-centric event.
Goose Island, a Chicago-based brewery, has been crafting Bourbon County Stout since the 1990s. It is a highly sought-after beer, known for its rich and complex flavors that are derived from aging in bourbon barrels. The beer is released annually on Black Friday, creating a frenzy among beer enthusiasts who eagerly await its arrival.
One of the reasons Bourbon County Stout is so highly anticipated is its limited availability. Each year, Goose Island produces a limited quantity of this beer, making it a rare find for beer lovers. This exclusivity adds to the excitement and allure surrounding its release.
What sets Bourbon County Stout apart is its aging process in bourbon barrels. The beer is aged for a year in barrels that were previously used to age bourbon. This imparts unique flavors of vanilla, oak, and caramel, as well as a subtle bourbon character. The result is a beer that is incredibly rich, full-bodied, and packed with layers of flavor.
I was fortunate enough to try Bourbon County Stout a few years ago and it was truly a remarkable experience. The beer poured pitch black with a thick, tan head. The aroma was intoxicating, with notes of roasted malt, dark chocolate, and a hint of bourbon. Upon taking the first sip, I was greeted by a velvety smooth texture and a complex blend of flavors. The roasted malt provided a deep, coffee-like bitterness, while the bourbon barrel aging added layers of sweetness, vanilla, and oak. The finish was long and warming, leaving a satisfying warmth in the chest.
Bourbon County Stout has undoubtedly played a significant role in turning Black Friday into a beer day. It has captured the imagination of beer enthusiasts across the country, with people lining up outside liquor stores and breweries to get their hands on a bottle or two. The beer has also inspired other breweries to release special, limited-edition beers on Black Friday, further solidifying the day as a beer lover's holiday.
Goose Island's Bourbon County Stout is the beer that only comes out on Black Friday. Its limited availability, unique aging process, and exceptional flavor profile have made it a highly sought-after beer among enthusiasts. It has helped transform Black Friday into a day where beer lovers eagerly anticipate the release of special, limited-edition brews. Whether you have tried it or not, the legend of Bourbon County Stout lives on, captivating beer enthusiasts every Black Friday.