Port Brewing Old Viscosity Ale - 22oz

As suggested on the label, this is one hell of an opaque beer--like, scary opaque. "Motor-oil black" would be a good description; topped with a rich, coffee-colored lacing. Surprisingly soft in the aroma, but full of chocolate, cake, Ovaltine, roasted grains, figs and ripe, dark, forest fruits. Whoa, this is one intensely rich and robust beer--nearly heart-stopping. Mouthfeel is huge and viscous at first, not as full-bodied as we expected. The carbonation is uplifting, tingly, and creates some fluffiness on the palate. Malt flavors are all over the place: dense chocolate cake, blackstrap molasses, chocolate chip cookies, brownies, black treacle syrup, slightly acrid coffee and a nice dollop of rounding toffee. Hints of spicy hops dance around a barely noticeable alcohol presence--though it does get a bit solvent-like after a while. Figs; some vanilla; date-like sugars. A cutting, raisiny edge highlights the beer's acrid notes and pulls through as the beer warms. Finish is very dry, powdery, and leaves you thirsting for another sip, with a big, residual, roasted astringency.

And yes, this is a sipping beer. The 10 percent is well hidden in the dark chaos, so watch your ass with this one. We have no idea what this beer is--motor oil? A Russian Imperial Stout? They call it a Strong Ale, so it's best just to agree and enjoy. Pairing could be futile. Just drop it into a snifter and share with friends.