The Yeti returns…
I had the fortune of trying the original version of Great Divide’s Yeti Imperial Stout several months ago on draught at The Happy Gnome. A lovely beer. Shortly thereafter, I stumbled upon a bottle of the Espresso Oak-Aged version at Four Firkins, and frankly forgot about it for a few months as it hid in the back of my beer shelf. During a backyard bonfire party, my brother-in-law resurrected it, and I’m glad he did, because it’s one of the better stouts I’ve had in quite some time.
Thick pour into a snifter, big bursting head. Great coffee aroma, like you just walked into a bustling cafe. The oak was very subtle, not too aggressive or overpowering which is what can sometimes happen with these types of beers, like the brewer is trying to make a statement.
The coffee bitterness in the taste is nicely balanced by the deep malt and sweet vanilla oakiness. Some dark fruit lingering in the background. Very thick mouthfeel. There’s a lot going on here, but I think it works well. Highly complex, but understated.
A great sipper by the fire.
Rating: A-
July 1, 2009 at 10:36 pm
I’m glad someone likes it. I didn’t like it very much at all (for what my high expectations were). I’ve got a review for it waiting in the wings, but have to write about ten million things ahead of it…you know how that goes. I’ll obviously be able to pinpoint more about it when I have my notes in front of me.
July 1, 2009 at 10:42 pm
There are some coffee beers that don’t do it for me, I think a function of the type of bean or brewing process (or combination thereof). I think the espresso bitterness worked in this one, at least for my taste.
I enjoy about four times as many different beers than I write about…the writing can get overwhelming at times, especially when you’re already incredibly busy with regular work and getting ready to bring a baby into the world!
July 2, 2009 at 9:27 pm
I’d give it a try. I’ve had one or two coffee themed beers that were so-so. I’m a big coffee fan, so I’m looking for that beer that hits the spot. Good luck with the baby!
September 30, 2009 at 7:40 pm
I enjoyed a bomber of this last weekend with some friends, while we were eating a dessert of cookies and vanilla bean ice cream. Everyone agreed that the Yeti and the ice cream were a great pair and would make for likely one of the best beer floats ever.