Barley Island Bourbon Barrel-Aged Blackberry Oatmeal Stout

Brewed by Barley Island Brewing
Style: Sweet Stout
Noblesville, Indiana USA

Very let down with this one. I really enjoy Brass Knuckles, and liked the Bourbon Aged Oatmeal Stout. But, this one? Not so much. Very strong bourbon all around, in the aroma, the flavor, everything. The dark berries take a backseat, and the oatmeal isn’t really noticeable at all. Texture is rich and creamy, but the bourbon is just too much.

Cask at brewery - I must first mention that I am not a fan of the non-blackberry version of this beer. The aroma is strong bourbon with subtle blackberry. Pours black with a brown ring head and good lacing. Flavor is roasted dark malts, chocolate, vanilla, bourbon and a touch of berry. I think the berry mellows the bourbon in this case. Palate is sticky. Overall I think the bourbon is still too much but the blackberry has a way of mellowing it out which I liked. It just didn’t have anything for me to grab on to. Different and worth a try none the less.