Of course I took the kids to see the new Star Wars movie this weekend. Afterward, I set up the camera to do another beer preview. Logically, I should logically have popped a Three Floyds Dark Lord, or even Toppling Goliath Light Speed Pale Ale. But what I have handy is Lagunitas Willetized Coffee Stout, which they sent to me for comment.
This beer, that last in Lagunitas’ 2017 “One-Hitter” limited series, has indeed gone over to the Dark Side. It starts out as a 12.8% abv imperial stout. It’s brewed with Spice Island Blend from Chicago’s very own Metropolis Coffee Co. Then it was aged in first-use rye barrels from Willet Distillery of Kentucky. And it’s current available on tap and in 12 oz. bottles.
I needed to pour this pretty full before it would kick up any head, and there it is, tan and rather short-lived. Solid black body, and a very heady alcohol nose. The smell does have some strong coffee to it, but it’s more of a roast note that complements the black malt rather then blending with the alcohol like Kahlua. The taste is also quite strong, with a sticky, malty mouthfeel. Toasty coffee blends with the black malt. Despite being dark and roasty, it has moderate hop bitterness, leaving the overall effect quite smooth. This is dark, chewy and contemplative, a good choice for holiday deserts or with a plate of meat and cheese during the holidays.
