Hoppin’ Frog B.O.R.I.S. the Crusher
B.O.R.I.S. stands for “Bodacious Oatmeal Russian Imperial Stout.” B.O.R.I.S. is, in fact, one bodacious beer.
B.O.R.I.S. in the basement
I can see why this 9.4% ABV Imperial Oatmeal Stout (by way of Russian Imperial Stout) won gold in the 2008 GABF. It’s a hell of a good beer with a deep, robust profile that demands your attention right from the first sip. And, it’s just another reason why I continue to grab any new Hoppin’ Frog beer that I can get my hands one. They have yet to disappoint.
Appearance
As you can see by the photo above, B.O.R.I.S. pours as dark as it comes with a rocky dark brown head that faded to patchy lacing.
Aroma
Big presence of roasted coffee, light sweetness, a light oat component, subtle dark chocolates and a touch of booziness fill your nose as the head settles. As the beer warms, hints of vanilla and anise start to come out, as well.
Taste
Thankfully, I was not crushed in the consumption of this brew — not a single taste bud was harmed. The flavor is right along with the nose as big roasted malts, chocolates and oatmeal are balanced out nicely with an excellent level of hop bitterness in the finish. This is a full bodied brew that’s smooth and carries a little heat on the back end. A very tasty beer indeed.
Overall
I thoroughly enjoyed this brew and its roasty, robust character. Again, I can certainly see why it’s won gold in the past. Now all I have to do is hunt down the other variations (barrel aged and double) versions of the beer.
Rating: 4.25/5