Our Score: 100/100
Overall Score: 100/100
Toppling Goliath Brewing’s Assassin 2020 is, quite simply, a masterpiece in the world of brews. Receiving an astounding full score, this barrel-aged stout is phenomenal in every possible way.
Tasting Notes
Aroma: 12/12
The nose is greeted with a tantalizing aroma that immediately pulls you in. From the bourbon that is released right at the start, to the aroma of fudgy chocolate that beckons you, the smells of this beer alone create an intoxicating ensemble. It’s a complex and pleasing combination that teases what’s to come.
Appearance: 3/3
Simply put, this stout is beautiful. Its colour is the epitome of elegance, almost inviting you to delve into its depths, and the presentation is pristine. Just glancing at it, one can tell it has been brewed with utmost care and craftsmanship.
Flavor: 20/20
The flavor profile of the Assassin 2020 is more than mouthwatering. As promised by the aroma, you’re hit immediately with a full bodied melody of dark malt flavours, from rich milk and dark chocolate to dried figs, toffee, and toasted marshmallows. The inclusion of a hearty bourbon note adds an extra layer of complexity, lending warmth and character. The balance between sweetness and bitterness is faultless, rounding out the overall experience in a sensational way.
Mouthfeel: 5/5
The experience on the palate is just as outstanding. Expect a mouthfeel that’s sweet, intense, and slightly fuzzy, but not overwhelmingly so, providing the right balance without becoming cloying. There’s also the perfect level of alcoholic warmth, which doesn’t overpower, but rather enhances the other tones.
What the Brewers Say
This barrel-aged stout spends more than a year, sometimes as much as two years, in barrels before it’s finally ready for your glass. The brewers at Toppling Goliath Brewing have ensured a quality experience with every single sip, one that is defined by a warmth characteristic of bourbon over a chocolatey base. It’s a treat in every sense of the word – the embodiment of pure indulgence in liquid form.
Editor’s Verdict
To sum it up, Toppling Goliath Brewing’s Assassin 2020 is a beer that boldly essays an impossible balance between sweet and dark and makes it seem natural. There are layers of dark, roasty malt richness that never overpower the delicate notes, creating an all-round perfection. The end product is luxurious, rich, and confident, delivering an experience that every beer lover should have the pleasure of enjoying at least once in their lifetime.
Beer is a sight to behold. Its deep, dark brown color is reminiscent of the finest chocolate, and the thick, creamy head that forms on top is both inviting and impressive. The viscosity is apparent, indicating the richness and fullness of the beer to come.
Flavor: 25/25
The flavor profile of Assassin 2020 is nothing short of extraordinary. The initial taste is an explosion of bold, roasted malt that coats the palate with a velvety smoothness. This is quickly followed by layers of decadent chocolate, notes of vanilla, and a hint of caramel from the barrel aging process. The complex flavors seamlessly intertwine, creating a symphony of taste that lingers on the tongue.
Mouthfeel: 5/5
The mouthfeel of this beer is perfection. It is velvety and full-bodied, with just the right amount of carbonation to enhance the flavors without overpowering them. The beer glides smoothly across the palate, leaving a luxurious feel that is both satisfying and indulgent.
Overall Impression: 55/55
Assassin 2020 is an exceptional beer that showcases the craftsmanship and dedication of Toppling Goliath Brewing. From the moment it hits your senses to the last lingering drop, this beer is an experience to be savored. It is a testament to what can be achieved when passion and artistry intersect in the world of brewing. A perfect score of 100/100 is well-deserved for this remarkable brew.
Final Thoughts
Toppling Goliath Brewing’s Assassin 2020 is a triumph in the beer world. With its complex aroma, stunning appearance, exceptional flavor, and luxurious mouthfeel, this barrel-aged stout is an absolute masterpiece. It deserves its perfect score of 100/100 and is a must-try for any beer enthusiast. Cheers!
Overall, Assassin 2020 is an incredible beer that has rightfully earned its score of 100/100. It exceeds expectations in every aspect, from its enticing aroma to its indulgent flavor and luxurious mouthfeel. This beer is truly a work of art and a testament to the skill and passion of Toppling Goliath Brewing.
Beer is stunning to look at. The pour produces a thick, jet-black liquid with a creamy tan head that lingers. It’s visually appealing and promises a rich and luscious mouthfeel.
Taste: 30/30
The taste of Assassin 2020 is everything you could hope for in a barrel-aged stout. The first sip reveals layers of flavors – from dark chocolate and roasted malt, to hints of vanilla and caramel. The bourbon aging imparts a smoothness and depth that is unparalleled, making each sip a luxurious experience. It’s bold, yet balanced, with a lingering finish that leaves you craving more.
Mouthfeel: 5/5
The mouthfeel of this beer is velvety and full-bodied, coating your palate in a decadent and chewy texture. The carbonation is just right, providing a gentle effervescence that enhances the flavors and adds to the overall experience.
Overall: 50/50
Toppling Goliath Brewing’s Assassin 2020 is a true masterpiece. From the aroma to the taste, every aspect of this beer is exceptional. It’s a beer that demands to be savored and appreciated. If you have the chance to try it, don’t hesitate. You won’t be disappointed.
Hayden Horton
Barrel-aged stout is a sight to behold. With its pitch-black color and a thick, creamy head that lingers, it is a visual representation of indulgence. The beer clings to the sides of the glass, leaving behind a beautiful lacing that adds to the overall presentation. It exudes a sense of elegance and sophistication that matches its taste perfectly.
Taste: 20/20
When it comes to taste, Assassin 2020 does not disappoint. It delivers a rich and velvety experience that is nothing short of heavenly. The flavors of dark chocolate, roasted malt, and bourbon blend seamlessly, creating a decadent and robust palate. The beer is full-bodied and smooth, with a subtle sweetness that lingers on the tongue. It is a truly exceptional beer that showcases the craftsmanship and skill that went into its creation.
Mouthfeel: 5/5
The mouthfeel of Assassin 2020 is exceptional. It is thick and luxurious, coating the palate with a velvety texture. The carbonation is soft and gentle, adding a subtle effervescence that enhances the overall drinking experience. It has a full-bodied presence that is both satisfying and indulgent.
Overall Impression: 60/60
Toppling Goliath Brewing’s Assassin 2020 is simply a masterpiece. From its captivating aroma to its impeccable taste and mouthfeel, this beer is a true work of art. It exemplifies the skill and dedication of the brewers and deserves the highest praise. If you have the opportunity, do not hesitate to try this exceptional barrel-aged stout.
Overall Score: 100/100
This beer represents the pinnacle of brewing excellence and sets the standard for what a barrel-aged stout should aspire to be. It is a true testament to Toppling Goliath Brewing’s commitment to quality and innovation. Cheers to a remarkable beer!