Bent Paddle Double Shot Double Black

LOC: Duluth, Minnesota ABV: 11.2% | IBUS: 52 | SRM: N/A

What the brewer says

“This robust version of our black ale features a smooth, chocolaty, semi-roasted malt profile that balances out the doubled strength. Notes of oak and whiskey from an extended aging period in bourbon barrels. Features a ‘double shot’ of both cold-press coffee and whole-bean vanilla for an extra level of flavor complexity.”

What our panel thought

Aroma: “Huge tobacco and vanilla. Slight chile pepper phenolic with a decent hint of chocolate. Lots of oak and vanilla from the barrel. There’s some whiskey and oakiness, too.” Flavor: “Rich complex roasty character —chocolate and coffee up front—with a huge tobacco kick. The vanilla from the barrel adds richness and rounds things out. The coffee is earthy and adds a rich blackberry-like ester. Heavy body with mild carbonation. It finishes semidry with a light bitterness.” Overall: “Lots of chocolate, coffee, and vanilla. Sweet up front, but dry finish overall. Strong and flavorful, and all-todrinkable. A bit hot on the alcohol but time will help that.” 95 AROMA: 11 APPEARANCE: 3 FLAVOR: 19 MOUTHFEEL: 4 OVERALL: 10