A beer named after one Hunter S. Thompson is exactly what you should expect – dark, complex, and a little bit off the wall. A flat pour out of the bottle leaves a deep reddish brown liquid with a thick, light tan head. The first sniff leaves you with BBQ smoke, bourbon, and coffee. From there the flavor from a sip is massive, containing the bourbon and BBQ from the nose, adding dark fruit flavours and a slight acidity on the back end. Needless to say ribs, pulled pork, and brisket are this beer’s best friends.
All that said, watch out for the high alcohol of this imperial porter. The booze notes, although prevalent, are well hidden by all the massive flavours. If you don’t watch yourself, the floor will quickly become your residence. Despite being over shadowed by it’s better known cousin, the Russian Imperial Stout, the Imperial Porter is a highly sought after beer style. Mr Thompson’s name sake is one of the best, so make sure you pick it up when you have the chance.
Brewer: Flying Dog Brewery
Agent: AFIC Group
ABV: 7.8%
Category: Imperial/Baltic Porter
Appearance: 5
Aroma: 3.5
Flavour: 5
Mouthfeel: 4
Overall: 5
Score: 22.5/25
Availability: Brewery Creek Liquor Store, Firefly Fine Wines and Ales, Viti Wine and Lager
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
The Ralph Steadman label is wicked cool. Glad to hear the beer is solid, it would be a F*^*in shame to soil the good doctor with bad beer. Will have to try asap.
I like beer reviews that are not pretentious, simplicity is the best way to go, and you’ve achieved this here.
Thanks!
Great Beer.
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