Beer Friday: Narwhal by Sierra Nevada Brewing

On most Fridays, I'll share a beer I particularly enjoy, and think you might as well. This series will feature beers from all over the U.S. (and when we're lucky, the world). Cheers! 

Winter = stout weather.

Ok, I admit: I drink stouts all year long (and you should too, if you enjoy them!). But during the colder, rainier (at least here in Portland...) months, a bold, creamy, high ABV stout just tastes that much better. Am I right??

This here imperial stout also happens to be available...basically, everywhere in the U.S. So read on, grab a sixer, and have yourself some winter-warming sips of a stout!

What: Narwhal by Sierra Nevada Brewing Company

Style: Imperial stout

ABV: 10.2%

Tasting Notes: Vanilla beans, roasty coffee beans, and a teeny bit of caramel make this high ABV stout a little too easy to drink. The mouthfeel is a tad on the thin side for an imperial stout, but the aforementioned rich flavors help to make that nothing but an afterthought.

Pairing Suggestion: Sierra Nevada's website recommends chocolate mousse, braised short ribs, tart raspberry cheesecake, and gorgonzola cheese. I agree with all of these suggestions, but would also add brownies for good measure. ;)

Where Can I Find It? So many places! Here's the link you need to find it in bottles or on tap near you. 

*Pro tip: this beer will only get better with age, so if you can wait to pop a bottle or two, I definitely recommend doing so. 

Are you a stout fan? If so, what's one of your favorite stouts to sip on?