New Zealand, while it sits in the southern hemisphere, its summer (our winter) yields a mighty hop harvest that allows brewers in the northern hemisphere to make fresh, wet hopped beers year round. (Although the common wet hop beer season is around now) While I definitely think of this country's hop output I rarely think of their beer scene. Thanks to a trip to Oakland's Beer Revolution (and a bit of curiosity) I have in my hands the iStout: A 10% Russian Imperial Stout, brewed by a "nomadic Danish brewer, who has finally found permanent ground in Marlborough, New Zealand," according the the bottle's label.
Upon the first pour, the pitch black beer begins to form a golden bronze head that dissipates shortly after I place my glass on the table. After letting this brew sit for a moment I dip my nose into the glass. (What? Like you don't?) Because the beer is still frosty, and without a foamy head, I'm having a hard time getting big aromas. Dark, roasted malts make their way to my nasal pallet. Additional notes of dark, strong coffee begin to show up to the party. Nothing entirely out of the ordinary, but not bad.
The first sip can only be describe as BIG. This beer is not a toy, it's for the big boys. Big notes of dark chocolate, sweeter malts and something acidic. For those familiar with the style, there are definitely a lot of familiar flavors, but not in the same combination that you'd expect with an American variety. The texture is viscous, and somewhat dry. Each sip leaves a chalky, roasted flavor in the finish.
I'm definitely glad to know that the nomadic Danish brewer was not just someone from Mikkeller. (a A Danish brewery known for occasionally renting facilities around the world) That shit would be 10 times more wild! This is definitely a good effort by the Kiwis. I'm curious to try more of there stuff. This beer definitely stands up to standards. Definitely worth aging to see what changes.
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