Madhouse Carpe Diem
June 2, 2017Madhouse Brewing Co.
Carpe DiemDes Moines, Iowa Style: Bourbon Barrel-Aged Imperial Breakfast Stout ABV: 13%
Aged in Heaven Hill barrels and incorporates cacao nibs, Kona coffee, oats and bourbon-barrel-aged Iowa maple syrup.
As a kid, I loved to travel to the Bronx, where a candy store in my grandparents’ neighborhood offered chocolate licorice, my favorite. I haven’t found it since, but a close kissing cousin is this 2017 barrel-aged breakfast stout—pure yum! Deep cocoa with a handsome tan head, a most elegant vanilla nose, rich, sweet and incredibly delicious taste. We seized the day enjoying Carpe Diem with oysters Rockefeller, equally luxurious and soul-satisfying, seared scallops, black bread with dried cherries and assorted chocolate bon bons. De gustibus non est disputandum!
Charles Finkel is founder of Merchant du Vin and the Pike Brewing Co. Finkel is a pioneer in the marketing of beers in America.
The name and list of ingredients are a mouthful—so is this mud-luscious imperialized stout. Big, thick, bold—it’s what’s for breakfast. Coffee, cocoa, vanillin, bourbon remnants and maple syrup make this 13% beer unforgettable. The fullness and complexity are symphonic. Overtures and finales capturing the middle. Full-bodied and a flavor that persists. Obviously a huge endeavor on the part of its makers. Thanks for your gift.
Charlie Papazian is the author of the New Complete Joy of Homebrewing, founder of the Great American Beer Festival and national beer examiner at examiner.com. Papazian is a leading voice in beer and brewing.