I have no idea when or where I picked up this bottle of Thirsty Dog’s Old Leghumper. I know it was picked up recently, but for the life of me, cannot remember much beyond that. Good thing the beer is more memorable than its purchase.

Appearance

Pouring dark brown with a deep mahogany edge, Old Leghumper certainly looks the part. The porter had a light mocha colored head that faded quickly.

Aroma

This brew certainly smells robust. It’s got a rich nose with a good load of roasted and chocolate malt. There’s also a subtle coffee presence in there. Smells damned good.

Taste

I was pleasantly surprised with this brew. As a robust porter, I suppose I was expecting something a bit more upfront and in your face. Old Leghumper is very smooth, much like a creamy milk stout. The malt that was in the nose is a bit subdued in the taste, letting the roasted coffee come out much more. There’s a slight sourness to the brew that actually works well with the roast and chocolate notes. The finish is smooth with only the faintest bitterness.

Overall

I enjoyed this one thoroughly. It’s incredibly drinkable (6.7% ABV), smooth and tasty. Unfortunately for me, I’m not entirely sure where I purchased it so am stuck on where to start my search for more. Dang.

Rating: 3.5/5

I’ve been super busy lately (again) and haven’t had much time in the evenings to finally post reviews of some of the excellent brews I’ve had over the past month or so. You’ll have to excuse me as I venture through my notebook and get caught up.

I actually purchased this bottle of Thirsty Dog’s Siberian Night in late August in an expensive, but oh-so-worth-it purchase that included several other stellar stouts and porters. This bottle didn’t have a batch number or brewing date on it, so I’m not sure of its age, but I can tell you that it hit the spot perfectly on a cool evening last month.

Appearance

Siberian Night pours black as night. It looks thick, oily and massive. There was no head after the pour.

Aroma

This one smells as rich and complex as it looks dark. There is plenty of roasted coffee, dark chocolate and anise with a boozy backing. I got a whiff of sweet malt, caramel and vanilla in there, as well.

Taste

Man, for as thick as this thing poured, it’s super smooth with only a slightly viscous feel — not nearly as thick as I has thought. It’s got a great taste, combining rich chocolates, espresso, caramel and malts. The overall palette is complex without overwhelming your taste buds. I do love the slight coffee bitterness that lingers in the velvety smooth finish.

Overall

I more than thoroughly enjoyed this beer. Siberian Night was a deliciously warming way to wrap up a long day. It’s a great Imperial Stout with deep, well balanced flavors. I must have more.

Rating:4/5