Alright, folks, gather ’round. It’s that time of the month again, and this release isn’t just a beer; it’s a statement. We’re dropping Elkmont Reserve, and trust me, you’re going to want to clear your calendar for this one.
The Liquid Homage to the Smokies
We’ve always chased the idea of bottling the spirit of the mountains—rugged, enduring, and steeped in character. Elkmont Reserve is our liquid homage to that very soul. This isn’t your average stout. This is an Imperial Stout, and we built it to withstand a long, contemplative journey.
The Barrels: A Flavor Tapestry
The magic, as always, starts with the wood. We locked this beast down in charred Heaven Hill bourbon barrels. But we didn’t stop there. These aren’t just any bourbon barrels—they previously held BLiS Maple Syrup.
Think about that for a second.
The beer is slowly drinking in layers of history: the bold, fiery vanilla and oak from the charred bourbon barrel, the deep, molasses complexity of the BLiS Maple Syrup, and the rich, dark canvas of our Imperial Stout. The result is a seamless, decadent tapestry of flavor that hits you right in the soul.
The Guts: Anatomy of the Blend
This is where the structure comes in. You can’t build a monument on flimsy foundations.
We used a heavy-hitter malt bill to give this stout its full body and complexity:
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Tennessee-grown 2-Row Barley: Our local base.
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Maris Otter & Munich: For that rich, bready backbone.
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English Amber, C77, C160: The caramel and dark fruit notes that sweeten the core.
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Chocolate Malt & Roasted Barley: The defining char, coffee, and dark chocolate bitterness.
And the hops? We kept them measured—just enough to balance the gravity bomb. A subtle lift from Saaz and a gentle kiss of pine and citrus from Idaho 7.
The Verdict: Crafting Quiet Moments
Elkmont Reserve is a full-bodied, contemplative pour. It demands your attention, but it rewards you with depth. This is a beer meant to be savored.
Pour a glass. Head out to the cabin. Find a campfire. Or just share it with the friends who appreciate the stories, the time, and the effort that goes into a truly epic brew.
It’s been a long wait, but this reserve is ready. Get yours before it disappears back into the mist.