The pour was a deep dark opaque brown with an average (1-2 finger) medium tan creamy head that receded down to a thin layer of residue and medium collar, which created excellent sheets of sticky lacing.
The aroma was of roasted dark malts, light resin hops and a bold leathery yeast with notes of dark chocolate, dark roast coffee, dark fruit (black cherry) and a mild tartness.
The taste was lightly sweet and exceptionally malty with a bold chocolate roastiness which lasted throughout, progressing with a mildly bitter espresso presence along with a slight fruitiness towards the finish. The flavor hung around for a good long time following the swallow, with a lightly tart fruity roasty taste that was left to settle in on the taste buds, as a mild alcohol warming sensation crept in.
Mouthfeel was well beyond medium in body with a dry, oily texture and a somewhat lively carbonation.
Overall as Imperial Porters go, this one is at top of its game. It possessed tons of roasty flavor along with a mild fruity tartness and a superb drinkability. This brew is highly recommended and a must try for anyone who likes a dark roasty brew...
