Stone's newest Bastard bears forth

Images the property of Stone Brewing Company (click to enlarge).

I don't normally do a write-up on new release from Stone because, well, everybody and their mother usually just does a copy and paste of the press release and goes on about their day. But this time, I'll make an exception because the press release in this case, if you can even call it that, calls out this very practice in saying "...this release does not do your work for you. I understand you are overworked and underpaid, but you will have to write this one up yourself. It’s called 'journalism,' not 'copy and paste-ism.' For better or worse, I trust in you. I truly hope you share that trust in yourself."

It's no surprise to find out that Stone is the brewery behind such arrogance, and it's even less surprising (not to mention completely appropriate) that such dialog is offered in association with the newest incarnation of the, yes, legendary Arrogant Bastard Ale.

So, without further adieu, know that a new breed of liquid arrogance is coming your way in the form of Bourbon Barrel-Aged Arrogant Bastard. Referred to as "an oak-matured cohort" of the original, the new beer asks that you make the pleasure of its acquaintance so you might find not only "enlightenment and sensual glory," but also an "an opportunity for significant self-improvement." If, however, you are not "brave and astute enough to appreciate the onslaught of flavor," the beer goes on to suggest that there may literally be something wrong with you.

"Aspire to free your mind. Use a crowbar if you must." Seek out the Bastard's truth in six-packs of 12-ounce bottles, set to arrive at retail forthwith.

Stone set to release 2013 classic and "odd year" IRS

Image credit:  Stone Brewing Company

Stone has announced their 2013 Imperial Russian Stout (IRS), whose release will coincide with the latest entry in their "Odd Beers for Odd Years" series, an espresso-infused version of IRS brewed with locally-sourced coffee beans.

In addition to product information and cellaring advice contained below, visit the IRS website for tasting notes by Brewmaster Mitch Steele, and suggested food pairings by "Dr." Bill Sysak.


Per the official Press Release:

"Stone Imperial Russian Stout is one of the highest rated Stone beers, having earned a 100 overall score on Ratebeer.com and a 97 “world-class” score on BeerAdvocate.com. The recipe was created by Stone Co-founder and President Steve Wagner in 2000 and has changed little from the first brew, which utilizes four malt varieties and Warrior hops. The beer pours black with pronounced cocoa and coffee aromas. The chocolate and java notes carry through onto the palate, along with fruitiness and hints of anise. The beer is smooth and finishes with a slightly bitter hoppy taste.

The 2013 Stone ESPRESSO Imperial Russian Stout is an augmented version of Stone Imperial Russian Stout brewed with espresso beans from San Diego’s Ryan Bros. Coffee. Like the classic version, the beer pours black and emits strong coffee and chocolate aromas. Stone Brewmaster Mitch Steele notes, “The addition of espresso beans in the brewhouse and post-fermentation enhances the coffee flavors that are naturally found in the classic version, but also enhance the perception of chocolate. The fruity, yeasty and hoppy flavors found in the classic version are more diminished.” The Ryan Bros. espresso roast is a blend of Indonesian and Central and South American coffee beans roasted and blended together to produce a bold, robust flavor with hints of citrus and berries.

Both beers are ready to enjoy now, but are also ideal for cellaring over the span of several months or several years. Over time, the stout will continue to develop deeper, rounder coffee, chocolate and dark fruit flavors as the hop aroma and bitterness subside."