Central Waters Bourbon Barrel Stout
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Tasting Notes
Aged in bourbon barrels, this imperial stout leads with aromas of vanilla, oak, and dark caramel, with undertones of roasted grain and a hint of coconut from the wood. On the palate, flavors of dark chocolate, espresso, and bourbon-soaked dried fruit play against a smooth, full body. The barrel influence is well-integrated rather than sharp, keeping the whiskey warmth in balance with the malt base. The finish is long and slightly sweet, with lingering oak and roast.
About the Brewery
Central Waters Brewing Company is based in Amherst, Wisconsin, and has been operating since 1998, making it one of the older craft breweries in the state. The brewery is particularly well regarded for its barrel-aging program, which spans stouts, barleywines, and sour ales. Central Waters also runs on 100% renewable solar energy, a distinction that has drawn attention beyond its beer alone.
Food Pairings
A rich beef stew pairs naturally because the roasted malt mirrors the browned, savory depth of braised meat. Dark chocolate desserts — a flourless torte or brownie — echo the cocoa notes without competing with the bourbon character. Aged cheddar or a sharp gouda offers a salty, fatty contrast that cuts through the sweetness. Smoked meats like brisket or pulled pork complement the oak-forward barrel character without overpowering it.
Style Guide
American Double or Imperial Stout is a high-gravity evolution of the standard stout, built around an assertive malt bill that delivers flavors of roasted barley, dark chocolate, and coffee, with a full, viscous body. The style emerged in the American craft brewing scene as brewers pushed the original English export stout concept to its extremes. Compared to a standard stout, the imperial version carries significantly more alcohol — typically ranging from 8% to 12% — along with deeper sweetness and more pronounced hop bitterness to keep the beer from becoming cloying. Barrel aging, especially in bourbon or rye barrels, is common and adds layers of vanilla, oak, and spirit character.