Shugborough Famous Five Stout

Formerly brewed at Shugborough (Titanic)
Style: Stout
Stafford, England

A very new offering from the Titanic operation at Shugborough, this is an enjoyable stout. Very dark black, over 95% opaque, with hints of ruby at the dges and a cottage cheese-like head, beautifully clinging to the glass. Very soft "English cask" palate, not at all oily, silky smooth. Vinous and plummy aroma, laterly suggested more roasted quality. The flavor has an imperial stout quality to it, rich and fruity, mildly roasted, some sweetness building on the palate. I really enjoyed this one although it may have tended to a candy-like flavor combination at times. (on tap, Hobgoblin, Oxford) (note: I've learned from the brewer that this was brewed by 5 members of the Wolverhampton CAMRA, in conjunction with the Titanic brewer, for their festival in May 2003, and some of the 9 firkins that were produced made their way to the wider market.)