Upland Brewing Company – Teddy Bear Kisses

Upland Brewing Company – Teddy Bear Kisses

Russian Imperial Stout Aged on Cacao Nibs
BJCP Style: 13F. Russian Imperial Stout
ABV: 10%
IBU: 80
Bottled
Bottled Date: 10/2014
Tasting on: 11/5/14
Glass: Stemmed Stout

Aroma: Overtones of hops, red wine, sweet cherries and red licorice. Undertones of cacao and dark chocolate.  10/10

Appearance: Black with deep brown and dark red tones on the edges. Minimal, light tan head. 9/10

Flavor: Bourbon and sweet cherry start the beer and lead into dark chocolate notes in the middle.  The end plays the hops off the bitterness of the cacao and they end up complementing each other quite well. A background of dark roasted malt is apparent throughout the beer. Chocolate and cherry linger in the aftertaste. 18/20

Mouthfeel: Medium to medium-light body. Moderate carbonation. Alcohol is apparent but does not detract. 9/10

Overall Impression: A stout that is not only complex, but also presents unique aromas and flavors due to the process of ageing over cacao nibs.  I wouldn’t be surprised to see other breweries using similar techniques in the future. 47/50

Final Score: 93%