Review - Weyerbacher Brewing Company's Old Heathen
"Rich, velvety and deliciously complex, Old Heathen is a truly distinctive winter warmer. We use seven types of malt and two varieties of hops to bring forth this big brew. Quite robust and roasty on the palate, Old Heathen imperial stout has a wonderfully fruity nose and a moderately dry finish. The taste is highly complex- perhaps you'll even discern notes of espresso or chocolate.
Old Heathen imperial stout is our interpretation of a beer style that originated in the 18th century. Brewed in England and exported to Germany, Scandinavia and Russia, these beers became fashionable among the members of the Czar's court. In order to survive long voyages they were brewed with high alcohol content to prevent spoilage. And at 8.0% ABV (alcohol by volume) Old Heathen definitely contains a warming belt. You may want to lay down a few bottles for future evaluation- this beer keeps well and will only get better with age.
Like most of our beers, Weyerbacher Old Heathen is a perfect accompaniment to foods. Try it with rich stews, oysters, caviar or roasted meats. Old Heathen is also a perfect companion to chocolate desserts." -- Weyerbacher Brewing
Pours a dark brown color with no clarity with a full, frothy light brown head with great retention. Lacing is nice and sticky. Head has mostly diminished after a couple of minutes. Aroma is alcohol with hot strength with some burnt malt presence that reminds us of brown bread and maybe some plum notes. Initial taste is dry and bitter with some bitter chocolate qualities. At the end, there's some warm alcohol notes nestled amongst the sweet maltiness. Medium bodied, there\'s just the slightest touch of coffee surrounded by some creamy texture that leaves an oily mouthfeel and very gentle carbonation. Burnt malt finish. Complex and delicious.
Reviewed on July 23rd, 2008.
