Dec 22, 2008

Redhook Double Black Stout

I had this one for the first time late last month, but have enjoyed a few bottles since. Redhook first started brewing this one back in 1995, but cut short its production in 2000 — right about the time my beer drinking tendencies started to mature — so I never got an opportunity to sample its initial release.

From what I’ve read, the recipe is relatively left unchanged with the exception of the coffee element. Previously brewed with Starbucks brand coffee, the beer no longer touts that ingredient, yet it’s still got coffee in the mix. Not being the biggest fan of Starbucks coffee, I wasn’t so worried about its disappearance from the label artwork.

Beer Label: Redhook Double Black Stout

Appearance

The Double Black pours near black with a large, dense head that was dark tan in color.

Aroma

Smells like a rich, earthy stout to me. Subtle chocolates and coffee notes make up the majority of the nose with a healthy dose of roasted malt.

Taste

I really like this beer. Lots of coffee and roasted malt hit up front with a subtle semi-sweet chocolate presence. The finish has a slightly bitter, roasted coffee characteristic that balances out the sweetness well. It’s not a super thick brew, but fills the mouth nicely.

Overall

I found the roasted malt and coffee notes well balanced through the life of the brew. The slightly higher ABV became a bit more apparent as the beer warmed, but it was far from invasive. I’m real curious to see how this one plays out with a little time in the cellar. Regardless, I’m glad that Redhook brought this one back out of retirement — I love their ESB, but this is my new favorite from them.

Rating: 4/5

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