Pike Entire
Pike Brewing released this barrel aged blend of three different stouts in late November in a very limited capacity (the immediate Seattle, WA area). Needless to say, getting the opportunity to sample a bottle back here on the east coast is essentially a once in a life-time opportunity.
I’m not going to mince words here — I liked this one a lot. From the wax-dipped bottle down to the robust flavors, this one is a winner in my book. If I had a complaint, it would be that it is a bit young and I would love to get my hands on another bottle to see how some time under its belt in the cellar would treat the strong characteristics you’ll find within the bottle.
Appearance
The Entire poured a dark black with a large brown head that left a great sticky lacing on the glass. As a big fan of stouts, this one looks heavenly.
Aroma
You know this one has been barrel aged immediately. It’s got that undeniable oaky aroma, but it’s not too overpowering and is complimented nicely by subtle chocolates and coffee characteristics. There’s not much of a hint from the alcohol so it’s not too boozy.
Taste
Wow. This one is quite robust. The oak is definitely in there with a warming bourbon presence that adds to the bitter chocolates and coffee notes well. It finishes smoothly and dry with a slight vanilla coming in at the end. It’s got a decent thickness for a stout, falling in a well balanced middle. While you can definitely tell it was aged for a bit of time in former bourbon barrels, the flavors are never too dominating, but do present more of themselves as the beer warms.
Overall
Like I said in the intro, I would love to see how this one does with additional bottle aging. It’s got a raw, young edge to it that I think would mellow nicely. It made for a great after dinner brew that even my wife enjoyed (she’s not the biggest bourbon fan). The blend of the three stouts works out wonderfully creating a robust, flavorful brew.
Rating: 4/5