Bell’s Expedition Stout
I had seen Bell’s Expedition Stout in a local shop about five months ago, but due to the lack of funds (a six pack is just over $13) at the time I had to unfortunately pass on picking some up. On several occasions since then however I had gone in planning on purchasing the brew only to find the designated shelf placement barren each and every time — that is until this past weekend when I greedily and triumphantly claimed the sole six pack as my own.
Nearly skipping out the shop’s door with the new six pack and a few others that my wallet so graciously allowed me to purchase, I hurried home to put one in the fridge and squirrel away the remaining 5 bottles for a later time. As seasonal brews go, this has got to be one of the more expensive and harder to find (in my area at least) products I’ve come across. Why it costs so much, I have no clue, but due to it’s pricing, I’ll be cellaring these for the long haul and only pulling them out on special dates in the the future.
Appearance
I had to double check the label on the bottle for a Castro or Pennzoil logo as I poured this one. This thing pours thick and is blacker than the deepest pits of the netherworld. The head formed late and slowly, only after the beer had been in the glass for a minute — it was rich, milk chocolate brown in color.
Aroma
Lightly roasted malts and molasses sweetness fill the nose initially, but there’s also light espresso and chocolate aromas as well. This thing smells decadent.
Taste
Before I get to the taste of the Expedition Stout, I’ve got to say that this is easily one of the (if not the top contender) thickest beers I’ve ever come across. I’ve referred to beers as chewy in the past, but with this one you really could chew your way through. It’s not as creamy or as smooth, as some stouts, but the thickness and low carbonation levels leave a similar impression. The roasted malt is nice and subtle, accompanied by an wonderful espresso presence and slight alcohol heat. At 10.5% ABV it’s certainly not the strongest stout available, but it’s up there.
Overall
I certainly enjoyed this beer, but am utterly giddy over the cellaring possibilities of the Expedition Stout. There are plenty of characteristics within that expensive, little bottle that could take the brew in a completely different and unique direction. Will I be on the lookout for this one again? Most certainly, but only with the blessing of my wife and bank account. I’m not sure I could justify spending that much on a six pack again — and as a rabid stout fan, that literally pains me to say.
Rating: 4.25/5