As temperatures drop and the holiday season approaches, craft beer aficionados find joy in a beloved tradition: the release of Goose Island’s Bourbon County Brand Stouts (BCBS). Held annually on Black Friday, this event has become a pilgrimage for many beer lovers eager to sample a variety of specialty stouts. The lineup constantly evolves, introducing new flavors and styles, making each year a unique tasting experience. For 2024, here’s a critical analysis of the standout offerings, revealing which ones deserve your attention and which ones might not live up to the hype.
Originally, Bourbon County Brand Stout made its debuts as a single bourbon barrel-aged imperial stout, a style that Goose Island pioneered. Over the years, the series has expanded, taking creative leaps with innovative ingredients, diverse aging processes, and various flavor profiles. This year’s range includes much-anticipated offerings, but with all this variety comes the need for careful consideration when deciding what to buy. It is essential to analyze not only the hype surrounding BCBS but also the actual drinking experience the beers provide.
The exploration of the 2024 lineup begins with a highly limited variant, only available at Goose Island locations in Chicago on Black Friday. While the allure of rarity is palpable, the experience of this double barrel-aged rye imperial stout may leave some drinkers contemplating whether it was worth the wait. At a hefty 18% ABV, the first impression is powerful—a pronounced alcohol burn that some may find overwhelming. While coffee and cocoa notes deliver a rich foundation, the beer’s thickness combined with higher carbonation results in a complex, perhaps overly intense mouthfeel. Patience may be required for this stout to mellow; a two-year aging experiment could unlock its true potential.
Conversely, a sweeter varietal in this year’s selection showcases the influence of dessert-like flavors. With a notable 14.6% ABV, this stout aged in bourbon barrels was infused with candied ginger, toasted coconut, and cocoa nibs. However, the sweetness veers toward excessive for some, potentially alienating drinkers who prefer more balanced stouts. Nonetheless, the silky mouthfeel and excellent carbonation shine through. While the coconut notes add an enticing layer, it’s important to note that many stout enthusiasts might find better value in exploring other options (as noted below).
The Classic Reimagined: Original Bourbon County Brand Stout
The original Bourbon County Brand Stout remains a staple in the lineup, and this year’s iteration is aged in a mix of reputable bourbon barrels including Buffalo Trace and Four Roses for an average of 16 months. With an ABV of 14.7%, it offers a harmonious complex of flavors including a hint of savory soy notes, ripe cherries, and carob. Its moderate bitterness might not be the immediate showstopper some anticipate, but given time—along with its best by date of 2029—this stout will likely develop further. Its relatively lighter viscosity sets it apart, making it worth picking up for fans who enjoy a more traditional imperial stout experience.
Bold Innovations: Proprietor’s and Unconventional Flavors
A standout in this year’s offerings is the Proprietor’s, a rotating style showcasing bourbon barrel-aged barleywine with Mexican candy inspiration. Coming in at 14.7% ABV and featuring tamarind, guajillo chilies, lime, and piloncillo, this unique creation features a metallic aroma that might deter the faint-hearted. However, its complex flavors, with a slight chile heat at the finish, invite adventurous drinkers to explore uncharted territories within beer. Enthusiasts in Chicago should seize the opportunity to grab this one as its vibrant flavors might wane over time.
Another engaging varietal is a beloved re-release: the Vanilla Rye Imperial Stout, which captures the spirit of previous favorites. Aged in rye whiskey barrels and infused with Madagascar vanilla beans, the delightful aroma captivates from the first sip. The balance between the vanilla and the rye notes is well-executed, ensuring this 14% ABV stout remains approachable and enjoyable for gatherings or cozy nights in.
Crowning this year’s lineup is a remarkable stout aged in Bardstown rye whiskey barrels, subsequently transferred to hybrid oak and cherry wood barrels. At 16% ABV, the initial sip presents an explosion of fudge flavor paired elegantly with cherry notes that elevate the drinking experience beyond typical imperial stouts. Smooth yet boozy, this exceptional creation provides a drinking experience that succeeds beautifully in balancing flavor and alcohol content. Enthusiasts will be hard-pressed not to stand in line for this one, with the option to drink it fresh or age it further.
Goose Island’s 2024 Bourbon County Brand Stouts encompass a spectrum of flavors and experiences. From classic re-imaginings to bold innovations, there is something for everyone—provided they are willing to navigate the nuanced landscape of this extensive lineup. For fans and casual drinkers alike, exploring these stouts can reveal new favorites to share responsibly with friends and family during this festive winter season. Cheers!
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