Hello again craft beer lovers.  Today let’s continue our journey through local beer wonderland and chat about Sonoran Brewing Imperial Stout.  As spring approaches, the weather here in Arizona is still holding out on the chilly side and that means one thing, plenty of time left for big beers.

For many years, this power house of a brew was known as the Inebriator and at 9.1% ABV. I’m sure you can imagine why.   It pours completely opaque with a thick, creamy brown head that seems to last forever.   Rich notes of coffee, coco and other earthy flavours abound yet are balanced by just the right amount of hop bitterness.  75 IBU’s to be exact.   Lacing on the glass is impressive and as the beer begins to warm the earthy essences in the brew really begin to emerge.  Leather, a touch of clove and even honey begin to emerge on the palate.  There is a slight hint of alcohol warmth as you swallow, but it’s by no means off-putting, this is an imperial stout after all.

Great food pairings should include pasta with a robust Tuscan meat sauce, a Cajun shrimp Po Boy with a spicy remoulade or even a burger smothered with melted gorgonzola and bacon.  Great booze pairings might include a smoky Kentucky bourbon or a smooth single malt scotch at room temperature.PURE HEAVEN!

As always keep sending those comments and questions to kingjamesswann@gmail.com and don’t forget to Drink Local.  Arizona Beer Week is right around the corner, will you be there?  Cheers.