Every Black Friday, beer enthusiasts eagerly await the arrival of Goose Island’s Bourbon County Brand Stouts (BCBS). Originally launched as a single imperial stout aged in bourbon barrels, the series has dramatically evolved, now boasting a complex lineup that features various flavor profiles and limited editions. As we approach 2024, discerning beer lovers must navigate the options to determine which variant is worth the hype. Based on a recent tasting, this article evaluates this year’s offerings, highlighting the highs and lows of the BCBS lineup.
The Anticipation of Black Friday Releases
For many, the anticipation begins long before the Thanksgiving turkey has hit the table. The charm of BCBS stems not just from its unique brewing process but also from the thrill of the chase. With only select variants available in Goose Island brewpubs and select stores, collectors often form long lines at dawn, braving the cold for a taste of these limited releases. While this year’s brewing innovations promise exciting flavors, consumers shouldn’t let the buzz distract them from the actual quality of the beer. It’s crucial to remember that a brand’s popularity does not always correlate with its flavor profile.
The tasting experience for this year’s variants revealed nuances that ranged from the exceptional to the underwhelming. A standout, yet polarizing selection, was extremely boozy and creamy, boasting an impressive 18% ABV. Conditioned in King of Kentucky bourbon barrels for two years, it promises a complex taste justified by its longevity. However, its alcohol heat can be overwhelming for those keen to enjoy it fresh. The rich coffee and cocoa hints may not be sufficient to counteract the intense booziness for immediate consumption.
Conversely, another variant was crafted with a journey through flavors that promised to take participants to sweeter realms. While its creamy mouthfeel was resoundingly praised, its over-the-top sugary nature could deter more discerning palates. Some flourishes, such as candied ginger and toasted coconut, have potential, yet failed to shine through significantly. This variant, with its 14.6% ABV, may find its fans among those who favor sweeter brews, but those interested in a more balanced profile may wish to explore other options.
The original Bourbon County Stout has stood the test of time and is often regarded as a benchmark in imperial stouts. Aged for an average of 16 months in bourbon barrels sourced from esteemed distilleries, this year’s version, with 14.7% ABV, has many nuances that warrant attention. Subtle hints of soy and notes of carob and cherry provide a dynamic experience, yet the potential to improve through additional aging makes this bottle one worth revisiting.
However, when comparing to newer variants, the allure of novelty can overshadow this classic. While it remains a solid selection, long-time fans may find themselves drawn to more adventurous styles.
Among the most intriguing and boundary-pushing creations in the lineup is the Proprietor’s Stout, a 14.7% ABV barleywine. Inspired by Mexican flavors, this variant’s unique blend of tamarind and guajillo chiles combined with distinctively unrefined cane sugar creates a profoundly complex drink that piques curiosity and showcases the creativity in modern brewing. Despite initial reservations, the possibility of uncovering spicy depth amidst the sweetness offers a remarkable exploration for one’s taste buds, showcasing Goose Island’s fearlessness to innovate.
Moreover, a memorable vanilla rye imperial stout stood out as a return favorite. Retaining much of its charm from previous iterations, this 14% ABV offering captures the nuanced character of its rye whiskey barrels while seamlessly incorporating Madagascar vanilla. It is a perfect example of how familiarity can breed brilliance, as it remains approachable yet appealingly elegant.
My Top Pick: A Showstopper
However, the true star of this year’s offerings emerged from a hybrid aging process which left an indelible impression. With a 16% ABV, this stout benefited from complex barrel-aging that melded features of rye whiskey and cherry wood, resulting in an exciting fudge-forward flavor that is not only rich but remarkably balanced. It encapsulates everything one hopes for in a barrel-aged stout: indulgence without excess. This one certainly merits the price and the wait, whether enjoyed immediately or saved for special occasions.
The 2024 Bourbon County Brand Stouts from Goose Island continue to be a hallmark of the craft brewing landscape. Amidst the excitement of new creations and familiar classics, the real value lies in discerning which variants align with individual tastes. The varying results this year remind enthusiasts that while trends may come and go, the essence of enjoying a well-crafted beer is ever-lasting. Cheers to exploring these brews responsibly, sharing the experience with friends and family, and embracing the joy the winter season brings.