Our Score: 100/100
Review: 100/100 – Fonta Flora Brewery At Whipoorwill Farm Double Barrel Decoy
It’s with great delight that I bring you this review of Fonta Flora Brewery’s Double Barrel Decoy, an outstanding entrant in the world of beer. It is truly a testament to the brewers’ skills and boldness as they explore and redefine the boundaries of traditional brewing norms.
This Double Barrel Decoy is a double bourbon barrel–aged, double-mashed imperial stout that promises a hedonistic drinking experience dripping with complex layers of flavors, a promise it more than lives up to. The intensity of the taste will rivet your attention from start to finish, and I believe it has much to offer to both novice beer enthusiasts and seasoned aficionados.
Aroma: 12/12
The aroma of this stout gives the first hint of the quality imbibed within. It is decidedly intense, rich, and vinous but manages to retain an undercurrent of beer-like honey-tinged sweetness. The layers of aroma are mindboggling, and they weave a tapestry of olfactory pleasure that includes notes of raisins, dates, brownie batter, blackberries, bourbon, and even incorporates hints of cinnamon and black pepper at the finish. The aroma of alcohol, reminiscent of port and sherry, lingers beautifully with every sniff.
Appearance: 3/3
The appearance perfectly complements the extravagant aroma, representing the stout in an understated but insistent manner. The dark and brooding visage sits well with the full-bodied profile of this beer.
Flavor: 20/20
The flavor is truly where this stout shines the brightest. The richness of leather and molasses is instantly noticeable on the palate, underscored by a roasted chocolate malt note. A slightly vinous taste adds an intriguing dimension, while the hint of ethanol edge creates an exciting tension within the profile. There are lightly sweet honey notes that ride a wave of roast-peanut flavor, perfectly balanced by a clever hint of peppery spice that adds a touch of warmth. It’s a symphony of flavors, each note perfectly pitched and synchronised to create a harmonious taste profile.
Mouthfeel: 5/5
And finally, the mouthfeel. None other than a reflection of the perfect coherence of aroma, appearance and flavor, our experience here is undeniably sublime. It is darkly energetic, revealing its character with a calculated and controlled intensity that’s wonderfully tempered by an artful restraint. Equal, if not more deserving of praise, is the way this stout balances intensity with elegance, preserving the essence of what a barrel-aged stout should be.
Ultimately, the Double Barrel Decoy by Fonta Flora Brewery offers an exceptional drinking experience that I highly recommend to everyone. Even those who are not stout lovers might find themselves enamoured by the balanced complexity and intense flavors that this beer brings to the table.
Verdict:
In a word: astounding. Fonta Flora Brewery’s Double Barrel Decoy is unflinching in its character, brilliantly crafted in its complexity, and endlessly remarkable in its delivery. It showcases exactly what an ambitious brewery can brew when they’re not confined by traditional boundaries, and raises the bar for what a barrel-aged stout can and should be.
The appearance of the Double Barrel Decoy is impeccable, earning a perfect score of 3 out of 3. It pours a thick, black as night color with a creamy, tan head that persists. The head leaves behind lacing on the glass as you drink, adding to the overall visual appeal. The beer is completely opaque, showcasing its richness and depth.
Taste: 25/25
The taste of the Double Barrel Decoy is an absolute delight. The flavors are robust, complex, and well-balanced, creating a truly exceptional drinking experience. The base of the beer is a rich and velvety imperial stout, with notes of dark chocolate, roasted coffee, and a touch of sweetness. The double bourbon barrel aging adds layers of complexity and warmth, with hints of vanilla, oak, and a subtle boozy presence. The flavors evolve and develop as you drink, keeping your palate engaged and leaving you wanting more. The finish is long and satisfying, with a pleasant lingering taste of roasted malt and bourbon.
Mouthfeel: 5/5
The mouthfeel of the Double Barrel Decoy is luxurious and full-bodied. It has a smooth and velvety texture that coats your palate, adding to the overall richness and decadence of the beer. The carbonation is moderate, providing a gentle effervescence that enhances the flavors without overpowering them. The beer has a slight warming sensation from the alcohol, adding to its complexity and depth.
Overall Impression: 55/55
Fonta Flora Brewery’s Double Barrel Decoy is a true masterpiece. From its exceptional aroma to its indulgent flavors and luxurious mouthfeel, this beer exemplifies the best of craft brewing. It pushes the boundaries of what an imperial stout can be, delivering a drinking experience that is both bold and refined. I highly recommend seeking out this beer and savoring every sip. It truly deserves a perfect score of 100/100.
The appearance of Fonta Flora Brewery’s Double Barrel Decoy is truly impressive. It pours a deep, dark black color with a thick, creamy tan head that lingers for a while before settling. The viscosity of this beer is evident as it coats the glass with a sticky lacing as you drink. It’s a visually appealing stout that sets the stage for the indulgence to come.
Taste: 25/25
The taste of this beer is where it truly shines. The brewers have expertly balanced the various elements to create a masterpiece of flavors. The first sip reveals a wave of rich, roasted malt that coats the palate, accompanied by deep, bittersweet chocolate notes. The whiskey barrel aging lends a smooth, mellow character, with hints of vanilla and oak adding complexity. The sweetness of molasses and a touch of caramel provide a pleasant contrast to the bitterness of dark chocolate and roasted coffee. The alcohol presence is noticeable, but not overwhelming, adding a warming sensation. The finish is long and luxurious, leaving you craving another sip.
Mouthfeel: 5/5
The mouthfeel of this beer is full-bodied and velvety smooth. It has a low carbonation level that allows the flavors to take center stage. The viscosity creates a rich, almost creamy texture that coats the mouth. It feels indulgent and decadent, enhancing the overall drinking experience.
Overall: 55/55
Fonta Flora Brewery’s Double Barrel Decoy is a remarkable beer that deserves its perfect score. It’s a bold, complex stout that impresses with its aroma, taste, appearance, and mouthfeel. This beer is a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of the brewers at Fonta Flora Brewery, pushing the boundaries of what beer can be. If you have the opportunity to try it, don’t hesitate. It’s an experience that any beer lover should not miss.
Overall Score: 100/100
The appearance of Fonta Flora Brewery’s Double Barrel Decoy is flawless. It pours a deep, dark black color with a thick, tan head that lingers for a while before dissipating. The beer has a viscous consistency and leaves a beautiful lacing on the glass as you drink it. This visually stunning stout is truly a delight to behold.
Taste: 25/25
The taste of Double Barrel Decoy is nothing short of phenomenal. The first sip delivers a wave of flavors that dance on your palate, showcasing the craftsmanship of the brewers. The rich, roasted malt flavors provide a solid base, while the sweetness of caramel and dark chocolate adds complexity. The bourbon barrel aging lends a subtle vanilla and oak note, perfectly complementing the decadent flavors. Additionally, there is a slight bitterness that balances out the sweetness, resulting in a harmonious and well-rounded taste.
Mouthfeel: 5/5
This stout has a luxurious and velvety mouthfeel that coats your tongue and leaves a lingering warmth. The body is full and smooth, creating a delightful drinking experience. The carbonation level is just right, allowing the flavors to shine without overpowering the palate. The alcohol presence is noticeable but not overwhelming, adding to the overall complexity and enjoyment.
Overall Impression: 55/55
Fonta Flora Brewery’s Double Barrel Decoy is a true masterpiece. From its rich aroma to its exquisite taste and luxurious mouthfeel, this beer is a standout among its peers. Its complexity and depth of flavor make it a remarkable choice for anyone looking to experience an exceptional imperial stout. With a perfect score of 100, it is clear that Fonta Flora Brewery has created something truly special with this offering.
Overall, I highly recommend Fonta Flora Brewery’s Double Barrel Decoy. It is an exceptional beer that will satisfy even the most discerning beer enthusiasts. Cheers!
The appearance of Fonta Flora Brewery’s Double Barrel Decoy does not disappoint. It pours a pitch black color with a thick, creamy tan head that lingers for a while. The carbonation is moderate, adding a subtle effervescence to the beer. Overall, it has a visually pleasing and inviting presence.
Taste: 25/25
The taste of this beer is truly exceptional. The flavors are bold and complex, delivering a rich and indulgent experience with every sip. The dominant notes of dark chocolate, roasted malt, and toffee create a luscious sweetness that is beautifully balanced by the bitterness of espresso and charred oak. The bourbon barrel aging adds a pleasant warmth and depth to the beer, while the double-mashing process gives it a smooth and velvety mouthfeel. It is a harmonious symphony of flavors that leave a lasting impression on the palate.
Overall Experience: 60/60
Fonta Flora Brewery’s Double Barrel Decoy is an outstanding beer that truly deserves its high score. From the moment you take your first sip, you are transported into a world of indulgence and craftsmanship. The balance of flavors, the richness of the aroma, and the impeccable execution of the brewing process all contribute to a truly exceptional beer-drinking experience. Whether you are a fan of stouts or simply appreciate a well-crafted beverage, this beer is a must-try.
In conclusion, Fonta Flora Brewery’s Double Barrel Decoy is a masterpiece that showcases the brewery’s commitment to pushing boundaries and creating extraordinary beers. With its intense flavors, irresistible aroma, and impeccable execution, it is a true delight for beer enthusiasts. Score: 100/100.