(Draft: 2005 Oregon Brewers Festival in Portland, OR) Boasting a toasty, caramely nose, it smells mildly sweet and somewhat hoppy, and this beer really smells promising. Unfortunately, the flavor does not live up to that promise. Yes, it’s toasty and caramely to some extent, with a moderately bitter hoppiness, but then there’s some weird veggie flavor that reminds me of celery, I think. And then there’s the issue with the IBUs. Supposedly 99.5 IBUs, but this beer doesn’t even seem to come close to that. Medium body seems about average for beer in general, so not all that "imperial" on the palate. Medium amber color. Small, light tan head. Pretty good, but not as good as I was expecting.

Tasted on Tap at 2005 OBF. Medium brown color. Small sized white foamy head. Aroma is caramel and sweet. A medium bodied American Strong Ale. Malts are fruity and sweet. Hops are slightly bitter, grapefruity and piney. Nice balance. Very smooth taste, Hides the 8% alcohol very well, only a touch of alcohol bite at the finish. Mouthfeel is full. Finish is clean and smooth. Aftertaste is slightly bitter.