Great Lakes Brewing Company, founded in 1988 by brothers Patrick and Daniel Conway, was the first brewpub and microbrewery in Ohio. Important to Cleveland’s local identity, the brewery distributes over a dozen year round and seasonal brews. One of their winter seasonal offerings is an Imperial Stout aptly named “Blackout.”

The beer pours an almost black color with ruby highlights when viewed against the light. The thin mocha colored head shows moderate retention and leaves behind some lacing atop the beer.

On the nose notes of dark chocolate leap from the glass along with notes of roasted coffee. Sweet dark dried fruit, almost raisiny mixes with a sweet caramel note. Roasted malts and hint of vanilla complete the bouquet.

The palate offers notes of toffee, dark chocolate and molasses. The mid palate offers dark roasted malts and almost bitter coffee notes. Dark fruit notes mix with a slightly boozy notes make you think of rum raisin. A creamy vanilla note mixes with a lighter chocolate component on the finish.

Great Lakes has done a Great Job. A littler less aggressive than many Imperial Stouts, but well balanced with a great flavor profile. Pair this one with blue cheese, duck with cherry compote or tiramisu. 

The Beer Buyer Overall Rating: 3.0 Out of 5 Pints