Goose Island Bourbon County Coffee is a highly sought-after beer in the craft beer community, and for good reason. This particular variant, brewed in 2022 in Illinois, is an American Double/Imperial Stout with a robust ABV of 12.6%. The high alcohol content is characteristic of the style, contributing to its bold and intense flavors.
One of the standout features of this stout is the use of Intelligentsia Black Cat espresso from Chicago. This adds a unique and distinct coffee character to the beer, elevating its complexity and depth. As a coffee lover, I find this combination of flavors absolutely delightful.
When pouring the Goose Island Bourbon County Coffee, you'll notice a dark, midnight color that is almost black. This inky appearance is a visual representation of the rich and full-bodied flavors that await you. The beer is brewed with a blend of six different malt varieties, which contribute to its complexity and depth.
Upon taking your first sip, you'll immediately be greeted with the bold flavors of coffee, bourbon, and vanilla. The coffee notes are prominent, adding a pleasant bitterness that is well-balanced by the sweetness of the bourbon and the smoothness of the vanilla. These flavors come together harmoniously, creating a truly decadent drinking experience.
The use of bourbon barrels in the aging process of this stout also contributes to its overall character. The beer absorbs the flavors and aromas of the bourbon, adding a subtle warmth and complexity. It's important to note that the alcohol content in this beer is not overpowering, but rather enhances the overall flavor profile.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and analyze many different beers, and Goose Island Bourbon County Coffee is truly exceptional. It combines the best elements of a rich, dark stout with the boldness of coffee and the smoothness of bourbon. It's a beer that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with desserts like chocolate cake or vanilla ice cream.
To summarize, Goose Island Bourbon County Coffee is a highly sought-after stout with a 12.6% ABV. It showcases the bold flavors of coffee, bourbon, and vanilla, and is brewed with a blend of six different malt varieties. The use of bourbon barrels adds complexity and depth to the beer, creating a truly memorable drinking experience. If you have the opportunity to try this beer, I highly recommend it.