Our Score: 96/100
New Image Brewing Three Halves: A Barrel-Aged Wonder
Would you ever consider a stout to be more than just a beer, perhaps a sensory adventure? Buckle up, folks, because the New Image Brewing Three Halves is here to take you on a ride that’s as thrilling as bungee jumping with your taste buds. The craft beer scene is no stranger to stouts, but this one stands apart like a diamond in a coal mine.
What’s Brewing in the Barrel?
Barrel-aged imperial stouts are akin to the grand symphony of the beer world. And, as the brewers say, they’re not just any regular compositions; they’re opuses that include a medley of generous coffee, luxurious cacao, and delicate vanilla notes. The result is not so much a beverage as it is a testament to craft brewing genius.
The Aroma Adventure
Imagine, if you will, being greeted by fragrances that tantalize your olfactory senses. The New Image Brewing’s Three Halves stout hits a high note with an aromatic profile that scores a brilliant 12 out of 12. There’s something about the way the roast, dark-chocolate, and bourbon aromas coalesce, evoking a sense of warmth and comfort. Moreover, intriguing whispers of anise and cardamom manage to dance through the heavier coffee and chocolate aromas, adding an almost exotic twist to the experience.
Behold the Visuals
Laying eyes on this imperial stout is like beholding a liquid tapestry. It pours a deep, impenetrable black with a modest head, a signifier of its robust character. While appearance might seem less important, a strong 3 out of 3 suggests that New Image Brewing prioritizes every aspect of their beer, understanding that the eyes play as crucial a role as any in the enjoyment process.
The Palate’s Playground
Take a swig and embrace the decadent interplay of flavors. A laudable 19 out of 19 in flavor denotes a brew that’s been developed with intent and precision. Each sip offers a balanced battle between the bitter coffee and sweet dark chocolate, with vanilla soothing any flavor spikes like a skilled mediator. Subtle notes of caramel weave into the strong oak backbone, completing a rich tapestry of taste. Remarkably well-integrated, the elements complement one another beautifully, demonstrating the art of brewing at its finest.
A Velvety Embrace
Now, let’s talk about mouthfeel. It’s here where this stout truly shines, boasting a mouthfeel that could very well be the envy of its kin. Scoring a 4 out of 4, it wraps around the tongue with a velvety embrace, housing every robust element from aroma to flavor without overwhelming the senses. Each sip leaves a lingering warmth, a gentle reminder of the imperial stout’s potency and depth.
Subtle Complexity Meets Warming Finish
If you’re a fan of something more than just a mere tickle on the tongue, Three Halves has you covered. The beer’s well-built body is just waiting to house every little nuance it carries, all while providing plenty of alcoholic warmth. This isn’t just a drink; it’s a comforter on a cold night, a fireplace in a cozy cabin.
Editorial Observations
Yes, our editors had their say too, and it was a mixed bag of feelings. They noted the stout’s “Thai-style sweet-meets-spicy character” on the nose, a testament to the complexity hidden within. However, some nuances seemed to have lost their way amidst a vague acidity during the sip. This unexpected guest plasters over the structured roast and engaging barrel character, leaving one yearning for more definition in the sensory journey.
A Beer Worth Reflecting On
We decided to get our own Print Shelf Talker because this beer is not just a beverage—it’s a storyboard of flavors waiting to be unraveled. It’s the kind of beer that deserves slow sips, silent nods, and deep conversation.
In Conclusion: A Stout That Stands Out
So, if you’re intrigued by the thought of an imperial stout that feels like a warm blanket on a chilly eve, give Three Halves a chance. It’s a plunge into the deep end of brewing mastery, one that’s been crafted not just to please but to astonish.
Now, dear reader, we hope this review has tickled your fancy or at least stirred a curiosity for a taste of New Image Brewing’s crafty concoction. It’s not just a beer; it’s a full-blown experience, bottled up and waiting for you to take the first sip.
Cheers!
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