BrewDog Riptide Stout. I am pleased to say report this has not been spoiled by the trip from Scotland, but it wasn't quite as good as expected. Too smooth, more like a balctic porter. not bad though. Now another scottish gem: Laphroaig cask strength 10yo. mmmmmmm:P
I really loved Riptide. So drinkable. It's not really strong enough for an IS but I really can't stand the "classic" Imperial Stouts... too much Roast Barley and you start tending towards soy sauce.
Well after tasting the two big IPA's at Malthouse last night I've gone to the complete other end of the scale, a flagon of Emersons Bookbinder from Regional's. Spectacular, easy drinking, full bodied, hints of caramel and a slight woodyness which is really nice. Time for another I think.
After a trip to Freshchoice Parklands I have two bottles of Armageddon, an Emersons Pilsner, and a Croucher Pilsner. I could have easily taken two dozen bottles and a second mortgage.....
Side by side comparison with my pilsner tonight as I think mine is a lot malty than either of them... after dinner which is home made cannelloni! Salute!
Got myself a couple of black beers to drink tonight while watching the rugby - Three Boys Oyster Stout and Rogue Shakespeare Stout. Some Epic Porter and Hallertau Porter Noir in the fridge as backup should I require it, which I hope I don't.
The verdict? The Three Boys stood up well to the Rogue. The Rogue possibly had a little more depth, a little more richness but the Three Boys is an excellent drop. A hint of smokiness and savouriness in there, without heading too far into soy sauce territory. And althought the game was no classic, the result was the right one. Let's just hope the Warriors can do something similar today.