A recent road trip to Ashland, Oregon took us conveniently near the vicinity of the famed Sierra Nevada Brewing. After recently reading "Beyond the Pale" I felt that it would be rude not to stop in for a bite and a beer at the Taproom. After a sampler of a few IPAs I noticed the Barrel Aged Narwhal Imperial Stout on the board and simply couldn't resist ordering it. This is one of Sierra Nevada.s specialty beers and it is only served as a ten ounce pour(at the Taproom anyhow). It is available in limited quantities in stores. The Beer itself is huge with an ABV of 12.9% and IBU:62. It is aged in Kentucky Bourbon Barrels which impart flavors such as chocolate, espresso, honey and vanilla. As you can see the color is BLACK. The mouth feel is impressive and the finish lingers. This would pair well with a flour-less chocolate torte that we found earlier in the day at Bloomsbury Coffee House in Ashland.
Sierra Nevada describes the beer as being "inspired by the mysterious creature that thrives in the deepest fathoms of the frigid Arctic Ocean. Featuring incredible depth of malt flavor, rich with notes of espresso, baker’s cocoa, roasted grain and a light hint of smoke, Narwhal is a massive malt-forward monster. Aggressive but refined with a velvety smooth body and decadent finish."
If you are ever in Chico I would insist that you stop by the Taproom for lunch or dinner. It is well worth the adventure. If you have extra time I suggest taking the free Brewery Tour as well. The tour ends with a complimentary tasting(so free beer).
P.S. After lunch we walked right passed Ken Grossman as he was leaving his office. Probably the most humble Billionaire I've ever had the chance to meet. After I sold and installed the phone system for SNB he signed my copy of his book with a special thanks for all of the help. Class act.
