Iron Fist Velvet Glove

Iron Fist Brewing Co.   Vista, CA

Notes:

American Imperial Stout

22oz Bottle

9.0% ABV

Appearance:  Pours black, there isn’t even a hint of dark brown in the corners…very dense…head is thick and mocha colored…luscious, like a cloud floating on top…big bubbles supporting small bubbles, fantastic! (4/5)

Smell:  Very chalky, oatmeal heavy for sure…roasted and toasted malts, dry chocolate, very mild coffee bitterness…a touch of alcohol heat when I stick my nose in there, this is a very malt driven brew…very deep and dark and sultry…(3.75/5)

Taste:  Creamy, smooth, dry oatmeal right off the bat…roasted malts, light coffee bitterness, dry cacao nibs come roaring in next…very malt driven, much like the nose…I’m also getting a bit of astringent flavor, but it’s mild…not overly complex flavor, it really does start as it finishes: tons of oatmeal and roasted/toasted malts, cacao, coffee…Done…(3.75/5)

Mouthfeel:  Medium body, it’s smooth and light on the palate, but has a complex chewiness that balances between easy drinking and a heavy hitter…carbonation is a little light, but does fluff up bringing roasted malts, light coffee bitterness and oatmeal dryness to the palate…it has a dry immediately after swallowing, then fades with rich, roasted/dry flavors…nice, but carbonation could be more…(3.5/5)

Overall:  This is a really solid brew…it’s my first dip into the Iron Fist pool and I have to say its worth trying…the higher price tag ($10.99) may be a bit steep, but the flavor is solid and won’t disappoint…coffee, chocolate, and oatmeal straight up…not overly boozy, this one beer is perfect for a night in with the wife while watching something on HGTV…if you’re like me…(3.75/5)

Score:

(3.72/5)