Around Christmas I had a chance to try McTarnahan’s latest release, Goose Bump; an Imperial Stout, brewed with Stumptown coffee. It is the second brew in Mac’s new line of limited release bombers; following last summer’s Lipstinger.
The beer poured a near black color with a creamy brown head. The strong coffee smell overpowered the other aromas.
The beer started with a big roasted body and an intense coffee flavor. There was also a slight spiciness. I assume this is a result of the beer being hopped entirely with Perle. The coffee carried through to the finish, the dominate flavor of the brew. Like the head, the beer itself was very creamy, adding a rich feel to a rich taste.
Now, it’s no secret that I haven’t been a big fan of Mac’s lately. Lip Stinger didn’t thrill me and both Summer Grifter and Hum Bug’r failed to impress. Goose Bump went a long way to remedy this. It is the best coffee beer not named Overcast that I’ve tried in over a year. If you like strong coffee, you will probably love Goose Bump. And if you haven’t tried it yet, you may want to hurry. Mac’s produced less than 1,000 cases of Goose Bump and expects it to run out this month.
Heres to hoping McTarnahan’s continues 2010 the way they ended 2009.
Cheers!
Kevin