Review: Atwater VJ Black 2011

Atwater says:

“A huge Imperial Stout based on our best seller. Thick, Black as Tar and Brewed with 6 different malts and Barley flakes and Magnum Hops. The rest is a secret.”

Atwater VJ Black
Russian Imperial Stout, 11% ABV

Sayeth the Guys:

 RYAN: I have had an up and down relationship with the inspiration for this beer, Atwater’s Vanilla Java Porter. I was thoroughly disappointed at my first introduction to the VJP – which summarily exploded when I opened the bottle spewing beer everywhere. But my second go-round was much less dramatic and much tastier.

“The taste is similar to scooping up the last bit of vanilla ice cream from the bottom of your bowl.”

Needless to say I was jazzed to sample an imperial version of the porter in big, bold stout form.

Pouring charcoal black with a billowing tan head, the VJ Black gives off a huge nose of espresso and french vanilla coffee creamer. The aroma was far stronger than that of the porter. So far – this beer is as advertised. Slow, deliberate sips reveal a mix of vanilla bean, roasted coffee, dark chocolate and warm vanilla pudding flavors. The VJ Black finishes heavy on the vanilla with just a twinge of coffee on the finish. The vanilla isn’t overpowering but you certainly know it’s there.

The 11% ABV is hardly noticeable. In fact, this beer is surprisingly smooth and very easy drinking for a fresh Russian Imperial Stout.

While the VJ Black is bolder than its predecessor it isn’t a chore of an imperial stout; a good option to have on hand on those chilly winter nights when a Bell’s Expedition or Brooklyn Black Chocolate Stout seems like too much work.

Ryan

With over a decade of news experience under his belt, Ryan helps spearhead The Guys in-depth coverage of craft beer legislation in Illinois. When he’s not digging through the annals of state government he’s looking for unique beers to cellar.

Related...

1. Review: Atwater Vanilla Java Porter
2. Review: Arcadia Bourbon Barrel-Aged Shipwreck Porter 2011
3. Review: Bell’s Black Note
4. Review: Sprecher Black Bavarian
5. Review: Short’s Sustenance Black Beer
6. Summer’s Getting Shorts-er Review: Short’s Black Licorice Lager
7. From the Cellar: Central Waters’ Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout 2010 & 2011
8. A List Of Beer At The End Of The Year: Here’s What We Liked In 2011
9. Review: Central Waters Peruvian Morning
10. Review: Founders Porter