Able Big Blk Wlf Imperial Stout

Able Seedhouse & Brewery Big Blk Wlk Stout. 9.8% ABV. 52 IBU. Sample bottle, given as a gift from Able. Pretty sure I can't buy a keg or a bottle for the bar, so it was a very nice gesture, and I can't wait to crack it open and drink.

Dark black coloring, roasted tan head, a bit slim, but lasting. Looking' fine.

In the nose: Ah! Espresso first, then cocoa rolls on up. Maple, molasses, ...pepper? If you look hard enough...

In the mouth: Cool and clean entry on the palate. Much malt, naturally, rich dark flavors. More coffee, more cocoa, and all those other touches we talked about earlier appear in minor roles. It's a big one, but I feel it could have a heftier mouthfeel, more viscosity, things like that, things that make imperial stouts the monsters they often are. This ain't bad, but it could be much better.

As it is, though, I'll take it, and thanks to Nate for the gift.