LONG TRAIL BREWMASTER SERIES IMPERIAL PORTER

Autumn in New England is as good as it gets: Crisp weather, colorful foliage, and sudsy goodness as far as the eye can see.

Your Baron and Baroness von Brue recently jaunted to Woodstock, Vermont where they dined well, slept late, celebrated five years of marital bliss, and happened upon the outstanding Long Trail Brewing Company.

Notes: Draught at Long Trial Brewing Company – Bridgewater Corners, VT.  Picked up a 22 oz. bomber that will be ready to crack Fall of 2011.

Malts: Two-Row, Cara Munich, Caramel 80L, Wheat, Roasted Barley, Chocolate

Hops: Nugget, Centennial, Simcoe, Amarillo

Style: Baltic Porter

ABV: 8.3% ABV

IBUs: 56

Appearance: Midnight in the Sahara; ever so faint glow of campfires on the horizon.

Head: Outstanding tight, mocha head that wouldn’t quit.

Lacing: Soapy and steady.

Nose: Massive notes of coffee and grass yield to roasty toasty alcohol warmth.

Taste: Surprisingly crisp.  Hoppy bitterness and an alcohol bite yield to huge coffee, caramel, and vanilla flavors.  Long, glorious finish.  An epic, full, bruiser of a brew.

Mouthfeel: Moderate carbonation with a slick, oily back.

Drinkability: Very high, provided you haven’t planned a busy day of heavy construction.  Let the warm, rich porter sink into your soul, toast the crisp, cool Vermont air, and thank God for beer.

Rating: 3.5 hops.