Discover the bold and iconic Goose Island Bourbon County Brand Stout in its timeless 12oz bottle. Renowned as the pioneer of bourbon barrel-aged beers, this imperial stout boasts a rich, complex profile that captivates the senses. Aged for 12 months in premium bourbon barrels sourced from Buffalo Trace, Heaven Hill, Four Roses, and Wild Turkey, it delivers an indulgent blend of fudge, vanilla, caramelized sugar, and dried fruit. The luxurious mouthfeel is balanced with hints of dark chocolate, toffee, and oak, making it perfect for savoring or cellaring. With its legendary reputation and exceptional craftsmanship, Bourbon County Stout defines indulgence for craft beer enthusiasts.
Process & Profile
Bourbon County Brand Stout is meticulously aged for an average of 12 months in a curated selection of freshly emptied bourbon barrels from iconic distilleries like Buffalo Trace, Heaven Hill, Four Roses, and Wild Turkey. The aging process imparts a rich tapestry of flavors, combining the depth of bourbon with the boldness of an imperial stout. This beer boasts a robust 14.7% ABV and a decadent, dark black appearance with minimal carbonation for a velvety mouthfeel.
Tasting Notes
Each sip is a journey through layers of flavor. Expect notes of rich fudge, chocolate, caramelized sugar, and vanilla, balanced by hints of fig, raisin, and roasted malt. There's a subtle interplay between sweet and oaky bourbon warmth, creating a luscious, well-rounded taste. The nose offers a tantalizing aroma of bourbon, chocolate, and caramel, while the slightly silky texture ensures a luxurious finish with just a hint of pleasant warmth.
What Makes It Special
Goose Island's Bourbon County Brand Stout is not just a beer—it's a trailblazer. As the first-ever bourbon barrel-aged stout, it embodies years of refinement. The unique aging process in bourbon barrels infuses the stout with complex flavors that evolve over time. The meticulous craftsmanship and use of premium barrels make it a sought-after brew for aficionados worldwide. Limited availability adds to its allure, making each bottle a prized possession for beer enthusiasts.
How to Enjoy
Best served slightly chilled in a snifter or tulip glass, Bourbon County Stout reveals its full complexity as it warms. Perfect for sipping on special occasions, it pairs beautifully with rich desserts like chocolate cake or caramel tarts. Its bold profile also complements savory dishes, such as smoked meats or aged cheeses. For those who can resist immediate indulgence, aging the beer in a cool, dark place will enhance its nuances over time.
Indulge in the Goose Island Bourbon County Brand Stout—a masterpiece of barrel-aged brewing that's guaranteed to elevate any beer lover's collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Goose Island Bourbon County Brand Stout 12oz Bottle
What is the alcohol content (ABV) of the Bourbon County Brand Stout?
The ABV of the Bourbon County Brand Stout is 14.7%, making it a high-strength imperial stout with rich, bold flavors.
What are the primary flavor notes of this stout?
This beer boasts flavors of fudge, vanilla, caramel, toffee, molasses, almond, and dried fruit, with a rich and complex mouthfeel.
How is the Bourbon County Brand Stout aged?
It is aged for approximately 12 months in a mix of freshly emptied bourbon barrels from distilleries such as Buffalo Trace, Heaven Hill, Wild Turkey, and Four Roses. This process infuses the stout with bourbon flavors and enhances its complexity.
Can this beer be cellared or aged further at home?
Yes, the Bourbon County Brand Stout is an excellent candidate for cellaring. Over time, the flavors can develop further, mellowing some of the alcohol heat and enhancing its complexity.
What foods pair well with Bourbon County Brand Stout?
This stout pairs beautifully with rich desserts like chocolate cake, crème brûlée, or vanilla ice cream. It also complements savory dishes with smoky or caramelized flavors, such as barbecue or aged cheeses.
Is this beer available nationwide?
Yes, Bourbon County Brand Stout is available in select markets across the United States. Due to its popularity, availability may vary.
What makes this stout unique compared to others?
Bourbon County Brand Stout was the first-ever bourbon barrel-aged stout, developed in 1992. Its unique aging process, premium ingredients, and carefully sourced bourbon barrels contribute to its layered, refined flavor profile.
What is the packaging size for this product?
This product is available in a 12oz bottle, as well as other sizes like 16.9oz bottles depending on the variant and release year.
Does this stout contain any allergens?
Yes, the stout contains wheat as an allergen. Consumers with wheat allergies or sensitivities should take note.
What distinguishes the Bourbon County variants from the Original Stout?
Variants of the Bourbon County Brand Stout often incorporate additional flavors such as vanilla, coffee, or spices and may be aged in specialty barrels to create unique profiles. These variants typically differ from the Original with experimental or seasonal recipes.
How should this beer be served?
For the best experience, serve this stout at a slightly warmer temperature, around 50–55°F (10–13°C), which allows the complex flavors and aromas to shine.