Land and Sea Brewing Co.- Barrel Aged Imperial Stout

Overview

Land and Sea Brewing Co.- Barrel Aged Imperial Stout Review

I recently had a chance to sit down with Jason Walker, the co-owner of Land and Sea Brewing, based in Comox, B.C. Like almost all businesses, surviving the pandemic and the subsequent restrictions were difficult but strong community support helped them through. Coming out of the pandemic, Jason is much more optimistic. “I’m excited about it.” Referencing the atmosphere in the Comox Valley, Jason states that “it’s a new valley right now.” One that will surely appreciate great, locally made beer.

After our chat, I spied an 11% barrel-aged imperial stout in the to-go fridge. Brewed in collaboration with Whistle Buoy Brewing Company and Shelter Point, this beer was aged in a Laproiag Scotch barrel, a Four Roses Bourbon Barrel, and a Buffalo Trace Bourbon barrel. This big stout is opaque with a moderate light brown head. The aroma is of molasses, burnt sugar, cherry, and raisin. It is full-bodied with a creamy texture and low carbonation. Initially, there is a substantial alcohol note which is quickly followed by big dark fruit flavors. There are secondary notes of dark unsweetened chocolate, molasses, and black forest cake. Along with all of this, there is also a noticeable smokiness and that bourbon char that fans of Buffalo Trace will recognize.  It finishes long with layers of black malt bitterness, dark fruit sweetness, and some more smoky barrel.

  • (4)
    Appearance
  • (4)
    Aroma
  • (4)
    Palate
  • (4.25)
    Flavour
  • (4)
    Overall Enjoyment
4.1

About This Beverage

  • Colour: Black
  • Head Size & Retention: Some head, minimal retention
  • Carbonation: Mild Carbonation
  • Clarity: Clear
  • Balance: Very Malty
  • Drinkability: For Sipping/Challenging to drink
  • Enjoyment: I would definitely seek this beer out again
  • Malt Characteristics: Coffee or Chocolate, Dark Fruit (raisins, prunes, figs, black currants), Burnt, Smoky
  • Palate: Full Bodied, Creamy, Soft or Silky

Summary

This big stout is a whiskey lovers dream with lots of whiskey barrel derived flavours including some peaty smoke and bourbon char notes.

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