The Czar

The only new arrival today was the "Czar Imperial Stout" from Avery Brewing. This year's offering tips the scales at 11%abv.

Here's what the folks at Avery have to say about it:

"Behold the stunning crimson hues through the inky blackness. Inhale the noble Hallertau hops, spicy and floral. Savor the flavors redolent of English toffee, rich mocha, sweet molasses, candied currants and a hint of anise. We highly recommend cellaring additional bottles, as the Czar will continue to mature and become denser and more complex with age."

I'll drink one this evening and let you know what I think tomorrow.

EDIT: Wednesday 3.8.06 9:00 a.m.

This was an excellent beer to dive into while watching the rain clouds drift by. Rich and full-bodied with a frothy brown head, the Czar is almost as pleasant to gaze at as it is to drink. Aromas of dry cocoa, coffee, and chocolate liqueur dominate, with subtle sweet malt and roasty undertones sliding in underneath. Flavors of toffee, bready malt, and darkly roasted coffee roll smoothly around the mouth preceding an intensely hoppy, almost puckering ending and long finish. Other than an occasional (very slight) rubbing alcohol/phenol aroma the 11% abv is incredibly well hidden. Highly Recommended.

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