Black Boar Imperial Oatmeal Stout – ABV 10.2%
One of the best stouts in Ireland if not beyond, the creamy oatmeal and rich roasted malts give off notes of dried fruit, caramel and vanilla.
Look: It begins with inky black pour and a light brown head.
Aroma: Chocolate roasted malt, cocoa and liquorice.
Taste: The mouthfeel is unctuous the oatmeal with the perfect level of carbonation, and the taste is a rich and complex blend of roasted malt, dark chocolate, dried fruit, caramel and vanilla.
Food pairing: Enjoy it with a few squares of good quality dark chocolate.
Verdict: This isn’t a beer that seeks to innovate; it’s just very, very good. And if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.