As the holiday season approaches, beer enthusiasts eagerly await the release of Goose Island’s Bourbon County Brand Stouts (BCBS) each Black Friday. This illustrious series of specialty beers has become a coveted staple for craft beer lovers, making its debut with a single bourbon barrel-aged imperial stout before expanding into a diverse lineup that varies significantly from year to year. For 2024, this lineup promises an exciting array of flavors and styles, delivered as part of an annual tradition that invites both excitement and expectations.
The origin of Bourbon County Brand Stout is deeply rooted in innovation within the craft beer movement. Goose Island, now a subsidiary of AB InBev, created a niche for itself by defining what a bourbon barrel-aged stout should be. As each year passes, the anticipation builds—not only for the base stout but also for the variants that showcase bold creativity and diverse flavor profiles. For those in the know, the BCBS lineup represents more than just a beverage; it encapsulates a celebration of craftsmanship, seasonal good cheer, and the spirit of sharing.
Having had the opportunity to sample this year’s selections before their official release, I was ready to delve into an assessment that emphasizes my journey through these beers. Some brews impressed me, while others felt they fell short of the high bar set by their predecessors. Below, I present my rankings from the least favored to the standout brew deserving of every beer geek’s attention.
Positioned at the bottom of my list is the Double Barrel Aged Rye Imperial Stout. With an impressive 18% ABV, this beer exhibited a hefty boozy warmth that almost overwhelmed the palate. While the coffee and cocoa notes offered a familiar comfort, the overall balance was slightly askew for immediate enjoyment. Its thick mouthfeel, coupled with a surprising level of carbonation, detracted from what could have been an extraordinary experience. I speculate that with aging, its raw alcohol potency would mellow, allowing the complexities to shine, making it a candidate for those who appreciate the virtues of patience in aging.
Next, I tried the Candied Ginger Stout, which was intriguing for its gorgeous silkiness and vanilla notes, but ultimately fell prey to an overly sugary profile. At 14.6% ABV and infused with cocoa nibs and toasted coconut, its flavors were indeed pleasant, particularly the coconut—though it left a lingering sweetness that bordered on cloying. While some may delight in its saccharine qualities, others may find it too sweet to appreciate in large quantities. This is a beer you may want to sip cautiously, possibly paired with a more savory dish to balance its richness.
The original Bourbon County Stout of 2024, aged in an assortment of well-regarded bourbon barrels, represented a return to classic form. With a refined bitterness and subtle savory notes, it offered a complexity that spoke to skilled craftsmanship. Its potential for aging only enhances its appeal, and at 14.7% ABV, it clearly benefits from time in the bottle. This is a stout that’s worth seeking out and allowing it to develop its flavor profile over the years.
This year’s Proprietor’s offering, a barleywine steeped in Mexican candy influences, turned head with its adventurous flavor profile. Infused with tamarind, lime, guajillo chiles, and piloncillo, its complexity was surprising. While the aroma leaned metallic, the taste delivered intricate layers of warmth and spice—ideal for those ready to venture beyond traditional stout flavors. This is definitely a beer to enjoy fresh, as the initiative behind its creation stands as a testament to the brewery’s willingness to push boundaries.
Finally, I found my favorite of the bunch—the hybrid bourbon stout that achieved a beautiful balance of fudge and cherry flavors. With the highest ABV at 16%, its intoxicating sweetness was countered by a smooth mouthfeel and captivating aroma. Drinking this beer felt like an experience rather than just sipping a stout; the way it played on the palate was unforgettable. It stands as a testament to Goose Island’s innovative spirit and is certainly one for which enthusiasts should not mind standing in line this Black Friday.
Goose Island’s 2024 Bourbon County Brand Stout lineup delivers a captivating range of flavors, traditions, and innovations. Whether you’re a steadfast fan or a curious newcomer, these brews promise to ignite passion and spirit during the winter months. As we gather with friends and family to celebrate the season, let’s remember to enjoy these masterpieces responsibly and honor the craft that goes into every bottle. Cheers to the eagerly awaited release, and may our glasses be filled with delightful brews and festive cheer!