Stone Belgo Anise Imperial Russian Stout

Stone Belgo Anise Imperial Russian Stout. On tap, a 2011 keg that I acquired for our annual StoutFest event. Still on tap, but just barely, so I thought I'd better get some notes before it's too late. 10.5 % ABV. Brewed with Belgian yeast and aniseed.

Black as black can be, impenetrable, under a rich, brown cocoa-toned head, that starts big and comes down to a tight, but stable ring.

Aroma: At first sniff, we get all the hallmarks of a good Imperial Stout. There's the coffee and chocolate, the lush malt, molasses, and without much hesitation, along comes the anise. Nicely spicy, plenty of  licorice coming through. Not too much, just fine and mellow enough.

This is one that got many mixed reviews when first released, but that probably all came from anise haters. This one also has had a year on it, aged in the cooler of the distributor.

Taste: Everything comes rushing to the front on first sip, all bundled up. The dark malts, the chocolate flavors, the viscous nature, the tickle-y trickles of aniseed. An alcoholic heat also dip on the palate, and creeps into the back of the throat.
Full-bodied, without being insurmountable.

A definite sipper, one to relax and luxuriate with, consume with caution or risk immeasurable peril. This is a perfect brew for a day like today, with temperatures in the mid 20's and the streets clean enough for biking. It's warming me up before I head back into the chill.