Bourbon Barrel Aged Old Rasputin XXVIII

North Coast Brewing Company in Fort Bragg, California, sets aside a special batch of its well-loved Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout every year and ages it in whiskey barrels. This 28th release spent time in bourbon barrels. The barrel brings out the beer's espresso and chocolate notes and adds smooth vanilla and soft oak, with hints of caramel and dried fruit like dates. The bourbon shows clearly without overwhelming the roasty base, so it's a big stout that still drinks smoothly.