Firestone Walker - Velvet Merkin 2016 650ml

"Since founding our brewery in 1996, we have specialized in the rare art of fermenting beer in oak barrels. In the Fall of 2006, we embarked on a program to barrel age a series of vintage strong ales that would later be used as components of a blended beer. That blend would become our first Anniversary Ale, "10".

After the release of "10", we released limited amounts of the component beers on draft only. Many of these beers gained a cult following that craft beer fans raved about and begged for us to put in bottle. Velvet Merkin was one of these beers.

Velvet Merkin is the beer that almost wasn't; at least in name... After all, it's not our style to conceive monikers that are confounding, scandalous or comical. But in this instance, we inadvertently achieved all three with "Velvet Merkin." And so the name went off the grid for several years, but now it's back due to popular demand. If we get asked, we'll say it's all your fault.

Once in the glass, however, Velvet Merkin is dead serious This decadent oatmeal stout holds your nose hostage with chocolate and vanilla-bourbon aromas. Rich flavors of dark chocolate truffle, Bourbon and espresso ultimately yield a beer that is dangerously smooth and incredibly drinkable.

Velvet Merkin is a one-of-a-kind sipping stout that is built to last, and that will reward careful aging for years to come. Hoarding tendencies may occur." - Firestone Walker

Style / Variety: Barrel Aged Oatmeal Stout
Region: Paso Robles, CA, USA
ABV: 8.5%
Vol: 650ml