Though I am enjoying the new scoring/grading system, it does seem like there is quite a lot that will fall into the “very good” range of 30-37 points. Now that may be just because I am liking the STBC beers, but I think it will be a continuing trend. There is a lot of room above it with “excellent” (38-44) and “outstanding” (45-50), so I will still be able to easily differentiate what I think is great from what is just “very good.” I am also curious if I will ever use the bottom end of “fair” (14-20) or “problematic” (0-13).
The evaluation for each beer is done right after I open it so that I can sit and relax with the rest of the bottle. Sometimes as I sit with it I like it less and sometimes even more. I often think about revising the grade after, but I have never done it. What I am trying to say is that the final point tally is really only my first impression of the beer.
Continuing on with this STBC February ‘11 . . .
Brewery: Southern Tier Brewing Co. (Lakewood, NY)
Name: Oat
Style: Russian Imperial Stout (or perhaps American Imperial Oatmeal Stout)
ABV: 10.80% (on website) or 11.00% (on bottle)
Tasting Notes: Stored in the fridge (put in morning, consumed evening after pulling a little early) and served in a snifter. 11/3/10 listed on additional bottle sticker.
Aroma: Full, sweet aroma with very light roasted notes and also those of dark fruit. Some earthiness and a bit of alcohol warmth noticeable. – 10/12
Appearance: Dark, dark brown (black) in color. Slight light brown head that dissipates quickly with some trail on the glass (has legs). Opaque – can barely see through the edges when held to light. – 3/3
Flavor: Sweet, lightly roasted maltiness up front with some bitterness after that and through to the finish (though not too much). Nice bit of lingering sweetness and bitterness at the finish. Sweetness seems to dominate. – 13/20
Mouthfeel: Full body with a fairly low level of carbonation. Very smooth and creamy on the palate. Some warmth there, but not harsh. – 4/5
Overall Impressions: Aroma is more appealing than the flavor turned out to be. I expected a little more depth in flavor, especially as it warmed some (style usually opens up as it warms, but this one really did not). A good sipper and very good, but far from outstanding. – 7/10
Overall: Very Good – 37/50
Southern Tier Brewing Co. - Oat
Really that dark.
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