Willoughby Oaked So-Toasted Imperial Oatmeal Stout

Brewed by Willoughby Brewing Co.
Style: Imperial Stout
Willoughby, Ohio USA

Serve in Snifter

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Cleveland tasting

Thanks to Cliff (GrbDog) for picking this up. I would have gotten to it eventually at the brewpub I’m sure but this just cements that I’ll have to order another pint. The overall impression is very similar to the regular So-Toasted. Only a little oakiness differentiates the two. This is a very solid imperial stout that’s worth trying if you happen to be in the area.

Aroma / Appearance - The look is the same as the regular So-Toasted and most other imperial stouts. There’s nothing novel or new going on here. The aroma is also the same except for a slight oakiness. This is even closer to Kentucky Breakfast Stout only a little thinner.

Flavor / Palate - Coffee, ash and smoke make up most of the palate but the anise in the finish makes it worthwhile. This is not the most complex imperial stout though it does get enough right for me to consider it well done. The oak aging didn’t seem to make much of a difference however. I’m not sure if it was the time or method. Either way stick to the regular version if it is cheaper. Try this one afterwards to draw your own conclusions.

Shared at Cleveland tasting 3/15 Growler: Pours black with a tan head. Aroma, nutty and woody, some oats, coffee. Flavor, oats, oak chips, coffee, nutty, chocolate. The only thing that bothered me was the oak flavor, was just to raw perhaps, i could envision an oak chip floating in my glass.