Daley puts Chicago Beer on the line

Admittedly, I’m not a huge hockey fan. But a recent Tribune article made me pause and consider the Blackhawks.

Daley has made a friendly wager with whoever the heck runs the city of Vancouver on the upcoming Blackhawks/Canucks series for the second round of the NHL playoffs.

Both teams are putting up big packages, but Daley is risking a case of Goose Island’s Red Felt beer, with Chicago taking home three different types of Canadian beer if/when they defeat the Canucks.

It seems like a good deal for Chicago… but who would want to drink Canadian beer?

Review: Goose Island’s Bourbon County Stout

The Verdict: 10

Finally, I’m reviewing an honest-to-God Chicago made beer. Bourbon County Stout is Goose Island Beer Co.‘s 1000th batch of beer and was made to commemorate that special event. It’s advertised to have more flavor in one sip than most beers do in a six pack. I’ve been eager to try this beer since it rolled out last October, so let’s get to it!

Smell (2): I may have to give bonus points on this one. My mouth is watering just smelling the licorice and caramel odor wafting from the beer on the other side of my tasting desk (aka, my work station).  Along with those heavy scents are notes of the chocolate and coffee that you expect from a stout, but these are definitely dark and heavily roasted.

Color (2): I like my stout’s black, and if this were any darker it would be a black hole.

Drink (5): Wow! It’s pretty clear why they call it Bourbon County (aside from the fact that it’s aged in Bourbon barrels). This stout immediately attacks you with the smooth, smokey flavor of bourbon. If you weren’t paying attention when you caught the smell, you are now. As the bourbon recedes, a hint of blackberry and chocolate guide you towards the finish of roasted coffee and darker chocolate.  It’s a beer to be sipped, as the 13% ABV and bourbon flavors won’t let you chug this one.  It demands to be enjoyed.

Incidentals (1): Attractive packaging, a great history, and the novelty of oak barrel aging more than make up for the high price (about $25 for a 4 pack) and lack of a good head on this beer.

I’m giving this beer a perfect score, but I must add a caveat.

Bourbon County Stout is not an all occasions beer. This beer should be consumed among close friends at an after dinner conversation, or while relaxing on a summer evening. This beer will overpower any food you present it with, so simply enjoy it as a replacement for a scotch.

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