Beer Review: Baracus

Reviewing the Baracus from Revolution Brewing Company.
Score: 89

12 oz tap pour served in a plastic cup (the far left cup) at the grand opening of Revolution's new brewing/canning facility and enjoyed on 05/25/12. Review is from iPhone notes.

Appearance: Black bodied with reddish brown highlights at both the top and bottom of the glass when held up to light. Served with a creamy layer of khaki-colored head that settles completely. Good lacing and retention. 4/5

Smell: Sweet milk chocolate, dark grainy malt, caramel and a bit of stainless steel. Cocoa and brown sugar too. The stainless steel flavor is a bit off-putting, and several other people waiting in line for the Sodom concurred to it's existence. This is one of the first beers I got at the party, so maybe the stainless steel aroma had something to do with the "fresh" tap lines. At least the stainless steel aroma was not too pronounced to ruin the other pleasant stout aromas. 3.5/5

Taste: Bittersweet chocolate, brown sugar and a bit of roasty coffee. Dark chocolate, a little caramel, and a touch of earthy hops too. None of the stainless steel aroma on the palate, though there are subtle notes of "dark cherry" on the tongue. A bit sweet overall with more "in your face" bold flavors than balanced complexity, but still smooth and dangerously drinkable for the ABV. There is a little warming effect on the tongue as the beer warms, but it's not what I would call "boozy." 4/5

Mouthfeel: Full-medium bodied, minimal carbonation. Modestly sweet finish and a bit dry. 4/5

Overall: A tasty imperial stout that hints at much promise for barrel treatment given it's high ABV and chocolatey sweetness. I am quite excited to finally try the barrel-aged version when it taps later in the evening.

Recommendation: Order a glass of this if it is on tap. Baracus is one of Revolution's better non-barrel aged dark beers.

Pairings: Chocolate cake.

Cost: $4 for a 12 oz pour at the Revolution grand opening party.