The wait is finally over. Velvet Glove, the sister beer to Iron Fist* that debuted last spring, will be released in early November by Smartmouth Brewing Co. Velvet Glove Imperial Stout is the second half of a 20-barrel brew batch. 10 barrels were released in the spring as Iron Fist, the other half was aged in bourbon barrels from Bulleit Distilling Company in Lawrenceburg, Ky. Bulleit Bourbon is Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey.Â
Velvet Glove is a force to be reckoned with. This big beer boasts loads of heavily roasted malts that rival assertive hops. Delicate hints of bourbon, chocolate and stone fruit surface behind its colossal flavor. Brewed by the British to satiate the Russians’ – and namely, Catherine the Great’s – penchant for formidable beer, the high alcohol content and hops kept this stout fresh for the long transit through the Baltic Sea. OG:1.080 ABV:8.5% IBU:90 SRM:45; HOPS:Summit, Zythos; MALTS:Chocolate, Dark Carastan, Kiln Coffee, Munich, Pilsner, Roasted Barley. Aged in Bulleit Bourbon Barrels.
Smartmouth also has once again released its seasonal favorite, Cowcatcher Milk Stout. Named in tribute to the railroads that surround the brewery, this surprisingly sessionable brew is as black as night. With one deep whiff of its thick tan head, you’ll immediately catch the aromas of cocoa and dark-roasted coffee beans. Swish it around your palate to savor its full-body and smooth mouthfeel. It boasts a warm pumpernickel-bready flavor and finishes with a touch of bittersweet chocolate. Enjoy with dessert – brownies, chocolate chip cookies, or any rich, sweet treat. OG:1.057, ABV: 5.5%, IBU:33, SRM: 40.0, HOPS: Palisade, MALTS: Black, Carapils, Crystal 60, Munich, Oats, Pilsner, Roasted Barley, ADJUNCTS:Lactose.
* Note – Iron Fist is a trademarked name by another brewery. Smartmouth is no longer using the name for its imperial stout, however it was the name that it had when originally released.
