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Message: [QUOTE="MCC, post: 1190225, member: 145"] Review: Mikkeller's "beer geek" Brunch Weasel. Imperial Oatmeal Stout. 10.9%ABV. 11.2oz (330mL). "Let me tell you something, dude: thank you, but I've recorded in... [I]Denmark.[/I]" [IMG]http://thebrewbuzz.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Beer_Geek_Brunch_weasel_Brewbuzz-6.jpg[/IMG] So this is an Imperial Oatmeal Stout brewed with coffee, and yes: to my knowledge the coffee is actually derived from beans (berries, actually) consumed and digested by civets. This is also the coffee used for the best-in-class Vietnamese coffees, and you know how those iced coffees roll. This is a veritable monster at 10.9% ABV. Hugely expressive nose, oscillating between espresso, liquor and cherry mint. Wonderfully slick mouthfeel, with a backbone of roasted malt buttressing a pleasantly bitter biscotti/nut flavor - borders on anise, really, once distilled by the palate. The oatmeal presents itself primarily in the nose (a gorgeous buttery oat wafting) and in the rather ephemeral head (not surprising given the ABV). Despite the transitory foam, the Weasel does leave considerable stickage and gorgeous lacing on the glass. Although stouts are commonly poured in pint glasses (tumblers) I think it does this one a disservice: go with a mug or even the bomber wine glass (22 oz.) - better presentation for this bier and captures the nose nicely while concentrating the otherwise tremulous head. A very dark brew, this: I suspect in the 70+ range on the Lovibond scale (equal to SRM I believe). Essentially opaque. A vigorous pour does yield a richly hypnotic tan head. I'd let this one warm up to 50 - 55F before drinking. Consuming when colder risks masking the slightly bitter mint notes and the burnt cherry that develops from the nose at warmer temps. As to food pairing: this isn't a bier I'd have with a meal. It's best enjoyed on its own or with some charcuterie, and I'm having a landjäger with mine. In the past I've enjoyed char-grilled skewers of filet or smoked duck with the Weasel. Kobe burger sliders on brioche with melted stilton and garlic aioli are a rather decadent complement. In sum, this ranks as one of my most favorite biers. The one aspect that leaves me nonplussed is that Norway is referenced on the label, whereas Mikkeller ApS is known to be a Copenhagen, Denmark brewery. Unfortunately my evenings with the Weasel leave me rather less than motivated to determine which geography I should really thank for its expressions. Hope this review is entertaining and would be honored to know folks were motivated to buy after reading. [/QUOTE]

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