Goose Island Beer Co - Bourbon County Brand Stout (2023)

Few beers command the respect and anticipation of Goose Island's legendary Bourbon County Brand Stout, and the 2023 vintage is another magnificent expression of this American craft beer icon. Originally pioneered in Chicago, Bourbon County helped redefine what an Imperial Stout could become through maturation in freshly emptied bourbon barrels. The 2023 edition continues that tradition, delivering an extraordinary combination of deeply roasted malt, luxurious dark chocolate, sweet vanilla and warming bourbon. Rich caramel, toasted oak and subtle notes of dried fruit add further complexity, creating a beautifully layered beer that showcases the remarkable relationship between powerful Imperial Stout and American whiskey barrels. Bold, decadent and wonderfully sophisticated, it's a celebration of the craftsmanship that has made Bourbon County one of the world's most sought-after annual beer releases.

Pouring an imposing jet-black colour, Bourbon County Brand Stout 2023 offers an intensely rich and luxurious drinking experience, with a substantial body and beautifully integrated barrel character. On the palate, expect generous waves of bittersweet chocolate, roasted coffee and dark caramel, complemented by warming bourbon, smooth vanilla and delicate oak spice. As the beer gradually warms, further impressions of molasses, toasted nuts and dark dried fruit emerge, adding complexity to its long, lingering finish. Despite its formidable 14.1% ABV, the interplay between roasted malt bitterness, bourbon sweetness and oak tannins creates a remarkably balanced experience. This is a beer made for slow contemplation, whether enjoyed as an indulgent after-dinner treat or carefully cellared for a special occasion. A truly exceptional barrel-aged Imperial Stout and another worthy chapter in the Bourbon County legacy.