Rolling Thunder Imperial Stout 2018, the embodiment of Rogue Ales & Spirits’ Do-It-Yourself (DIY) philosophy, hits shelves in February. From the only farm-brewery-distillery-cooperage, Rolling Thunder Imperial Stout is brewed with ingredients grown at Rogue Farms, and then ocean aged for nine months in barrels made by hand at Rogue’s Rolling Thunder Barrel Works. The barrels, which previously held Dead Guy Whiskey, add notes of whiskey and vanilla to Rolling Thunder Imperial Stout.
From growing the ingredients to brew beer, to making its own barrels, to hand-bottling all beers and spirits, Rogue’s DIY philosophy extends into everything it does, including numbering every bottle of the limited edition Rolling Thunder by hand.
Inspired by Oregon’s bounty and the love of a good creative challenge, Rogue brewers annually change some of the ingredients in Rolling Thunder.
“We chose raspberries for 2018 because it seemed like a natural, Willamette Valley-driven progression from last year’s cherries. They add a whole new dimension to the beer through a slight hint of tartness, followed by a deep dark fruit flavor,” said Rogue Innovation Brewer Michael King. “This marries perfectly with the dark roasted malt flavors and vanilla characteristics highlighted from the aging in Oregon Oak.”
This year’s version pours black with a creamy head and features deep sherry notes accentuated by hints of raspberries, brown sugar and vanilla, held up against a dark roasted malt backbone with earthy hops.
Rolling Thunder Imperial Stout is available nationally in limited quantities on draft and in hand-numbered, 500 ml (16.9 ounce) bottles. Use the Rogue Finder to find it near you.
Terry Bunch
Raymond
