Year of New Beer: Bourbon Barrel Aged Milk Stout, West 6th Brewing (Lexington)

Written By: Dion on 12/29/2016

If you've made your way over to West 6th in the last year or so, you are undoubtedly aware that their barrel program is pretty much firing on all cylinders. Imperial stouts, Belgian quads, wild ales...they've all found their way into barrels of various origins. For this release, W6th takes a more subtle brew, the milk stout, adds Magic Beans coffee, vanilla, and cacao nibs, then drops it in Four Roses barrels. On the nose, a slightly bittersweet chocolate is augmented by hints of vanilla and bourbon as a light coffee roast presents with increasing strength as the glass warms. Lesser notes of charred oak and gentle smoke as the bottle empties. On the tongue, the lactose sweetness of the base beer is boosted by a silky smooth chocolate and marshmallow fluff. Again, the bourbon seems content to play the supporting role, adding a touch of heat as the coffee bean begins to take over, providing a drying bitterness. The earthy, woody influence of the barrel is countered by the faintest touch of mint-like vanilla. This is very well done. This is not the thick, rich, imperial stout that so many brewers choose to showcase their barrel aging skills. This is smoother, lighter... a bit sweeter, with subtle layers that develop with warmth. An easy drinking delight where the whole is greater than the parts. As Chris Ortiz said, a "Bourbon Latte". This will be available in the taproom on Saturday as part of the daylong West 6th New Year's Eve celebration, so make sure you stop by.