Coucher Patriot

Style:American Black Ale
Alc %:5.5
Brewery:Croucher Brewing Co
Country:NZ
Tap/Bottle?:bottle, 500ml
Where/When:Home, Jan 2012
Cost:$14
Rating:7


Dark coke like with a slight tan head of just under 1cm.
The smell at first was resinous hops but after it setteld they soften a little and a touch of pineapple and a hint of molasses.

This could be a baby brother to the Stone 15th Anniversary Black IPA. And given that this is not an imperial it's fair to say a good job was done here.

Stone 15th Anniversary Escondidian Imperial Black IPA Stone

Style:American Black Ale
Alc %:10.8
Brewery:Stone Brewing Co
Country:USA
Tap/Bottle?:bottle, 640ml
Where/When:Home Jan 2012
Cost:$20
Rating:8.5

It is a very dark stout-like looking brew.
A little smoky, even musty (or is it earthy?) on the nose with a hint of pine. I'm not saying there is no citrus but the mustiness clouds things a little.
Chocolate and hints of cocoa along with lot's of roastyness all over with finishing notes of licorice- good thing I love licorice although this isn't overtly sweet but easy to drink and moreish.
Juicy but smooth and a little creamy too.
I had this over a 3 hour period and really enjoyed it- highly recommended and not strictly a winter or cool season ale.
I had this in NYC Thanksgiving 2011 but didn't get to finish it- this time I did.