At the beginning of the holiday season, beer drinkers are always thankful for Goose Island Bourbon County Stout. As the brewery who proved bourbon barrel aging was more than just a fade, the Chicago based brand continues to push boundaries with its aging concepts. The latest release, Bourbon County Triple Stout, proves that a prolonged journey leads to a taste for the ages.
While the cocktail world shakes up lower ABVs, beer brands appreciate that there is a space for a more potent potable. Sessionable options will continue to have their place. Zero proof options gain in market share. But, the bigger, bolder ABV that is a slow sipper deserves prime space on the shelf.
The annual Bourbon County Stout release is one of those sought after, creative beverages that drinkers anxiously await the first time. Over the years, Goose Island used creative aging techniques, flavor profiles, and nostalgia to create innovation with its stout. While the bourbon barrel is always the core concept, other layers add to the drinking experience.
With its newest Bourbon County Stout offering, the specialty beer goes back to the importance of the barrel. By amplifying the time being surrounded by the oak leads to a beer that demands attention.
Ready to Open Bourbon County Brand Triple Barrel Stout?
Goose Island’s Bourbon County Brand Triple Barrel Stout is a celebration of aging and the importance of the barrel. As the signature stout journeys from barrel to barrel to barrel, each layer both stands out on its own and builds on the other one. It is a concept that opens the doors to more brewing creativity.
According to Goose Island, the new Triple Barrel Stout comes in at an impressive 18.7%. The additional aging ups the ABV. While it is far more potent that a lager, it is still within reach of the traditional annual stout offerings.
Still, 18.7% is bigger than a Cabernet Sauvignon yet lower that some uber aged beers that have been banned in some states. This stout is meant to be savored. Whether paired with a meal, served as an after-dinner drink, or enjoyed on its own, it is not the beer to be slammed while cheering your team on football Sunday.
When drinkers pour this rye stout, they will appreciate the strong bourbon character. While rye does tend to have some spicy qualities, this beer has subtly. Just like a well-aged bourbon, the nuance takes on character, depth, and complexity.
Additionally, the vanilla comes through well. As people expect from oak aging, the vanilla is both sugary yet comforting. That familiar sweetness adds warmth, even approachability.
Lastly, a rich milk chocolate adds that sense of fun. While far from childish, the milk chocolate makes it drinkable, even indulgent. It is like that little secret that everyone longs to know but only few have experienced.
The special Triple Barrel Stout will be available in a 16.9 oz bottle. It is sold exclusively at the Goose Island Chicago locations, the Taproom and Salt Shed Pub. More information is available at the respective locations.
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