Big Sky Ivan The Terrible

From Big Sky – Big Sky Brewing’s Ivan the Terrible Imperial Stout is brewed according to the traditional style using English hops and the finest American malt. Its aroma and flavor balances well between esters of dried fruit and roasted cocoa with a slight bourbon presence. Ivan was aged for a minimum of three months in American oak Buffalo Trace Bourbon barrels.

Big Sky Brewing – Big Sky Ivan The Terrible – On tap at 38 Degrees – 10% abv.

Appearance:  Pours a dark brown with no head and a red hue up to the light.

Aroma:  Bourbon. Leather, chocolate  and dust.

Taste:  Roast, wet wood, black coffee, whiskey. Finishes a touch sour and woody.

Mouthfeel: Medium bodied with modest carbonation.

Overall:  Pretty tasty.  I’ve had bigger better Barrel Aged Imperial Stouts, but this wasn’t bad at all. I believe this was a 2009 batch, so I will definitely revisit this when it comes out again.