Boulevard Brewing Dark Truth Stout
I’m not sure when Boulevard Brewing started showing up in the state of Virginia or if they’ve always been here and my local shop just started carrying their product, but the moment I saw a couple of bottles of this stout (among others from the company) on the shelf, I snagged them immediately. I figured what better way to introduce myself to the brewery than with a big ole stout.
And Dark Truth, part of the brewery’s Smoke Stack series, is certainly that — big. It carries with it a 9.7% ABV and is brewed with 11 different malts/adjuncts including rye, flaked oats and wheat malt. The kicker here is that the beer also uses Belgian yeast. Now, I’ve had mixed experiences with Belgian influenced stouts over the years. Sometimes they work, other times not so much. Dark Truth Stout works.
Appearance
This brew pours a very dark brown with a rich dense head that was mocha in color.
Aroma
Dark coffee, roast malt, subtle smoke, subdued Belgian yeast, dark fruits and a light cocoa character all come together in a fairly complex nose.
Taste
Well, the Belgian yeast certainly works here, adding a light yet complex layer of dark fruits to a smooth, distant smoke, rich espresso and a latent hop bitterness. This brew has some depth to it as each sip brings a myriad of flavors to your palate. The solid mouthfeel and full bodied nature, along with the warming alcohol, make for a beer that is meant to be enjoyed slowly.
Overall
This is a big beer with big flavors that are layered and balanced well amongst themselves. The Belgian yeast character isn’t overtly present, instead offering hints of dark fruit and peppery notes here and there while the lingering smoke in the lightly drying finish is a great addition. I will most certainly be purchasing more of this one.
Rating:4.25/5
