Stone Lukcy Basartd Ale
When word got out that Stone Brewing was going to release a limited blend of their Arrogant Bastard, Oaked Arrogant Bastard and Double Bastard brews, I had some serious drool issues. That salivatory complex continued for a good long while until I finally found a single bottle of the blend a couple of weeks ago.
It was a struggle not to rip it open right there at the cash register, but I managed some level of decorum and made it home with the bottle intact, only to put it in the cellar subsequently forgetting about it — damn these distracting home projects. At any rate, I was able to finally open up the 8.5% ABV brew late last week.
Appearance
Lukcy Basartd pours a rusty copper in color with a tan head that faded to a thin, patchy lace on the surface.
Aroma
It certainly smells like an Arrogant Bastard but not as rough around the edges. Big piny, resinous hops that bring along a strong citrus note mix nicely with hints of caramel, wood, grass and a touch of alcohol.
Taste
This brew is pretty darn tasty. It’s not quite as aggressive, perhaps, as the original beers, but it’s got tell-tale signs of all three products. The original Bastard’s in-your-face hop punch and bitterness is there. Double Bastard’s sweetness and higher alcohol presence is certainly there, as is a light oaky impression brought on by the Oaked Bastard. It’s a well crafted blend of the three beers that’s really tasty and drinkable.
Overall
Tasty, tasty tasty! I’ve enjoyed all three components of this blend on their own, but together, they make for a well balanced blend of flavors. It was a joy to find the one bottle I did, but man, what I wouldn’t do for another.
Rating: 4/5