Goose Island Bourbon County 30th Anniversary Stout Beer (16.9 Oz)

Goose Island Bourbon County 30th Anniversary Reserve Stout was brewed for a big birthday. In 1992, Goose Island brewmaster Greg Hall wanted something special for the brewpub's 1,000th batch. Over cigars and whiskey, he talked with Jim Beam master distiller Booker Noe. Noe sent him used bourbon barrels. The imperial stout Hall aged in them became the first Bourbon County Stout.

This 2022 release looks back on those 30 years. Jim Beam's Small Batch Bourbon Collection also launched in 1992. So the brewery aged this stout in barrels from each of its four bourbons. Those are Booker's, Baker's, Basil Hayden and Knob Creek. Each barrel adds its own voice to the final blend.

Pour it and you get a near-black stout with real weight. The brewery points to dark chocolate, vanilla and cherry. Some tasters also pick up a little almond. Bourbon warmth ties it all together. At 14.4% ABV, it is complex, but it stays balanced.

Use a snifter and let the beer warm a few minutes before you sip. The flavors open as it sits. Share it with a friend, since a 16.9 oz bottle goes further than you think. Try it with dark chocolate desserts, blue cheese or roasted nuts.

This bottle is a treat if you collect Bourbon County releases. It is also a fun way to start with barrel-aged beer. Please note that it contains wheat.