Nickel Brook Bolshevik Bastard
Rating: NNNN
Why This is one badass beer. Clocking in at almost 9% ABV, Nickel Brook’s Imperial Stout is an explosion of coffee, chocolate and Christmas cake flavours, ending in a burst of hops. Kentucky Bastard (750ml/$13.95, 368621), the even heftier bourbon-barrel-aged version is also seasonally available.
Price 4 x 355 ml/$9.95
Availability LCBO 406348
Sawdust City Long Dark Voyage To Uranus
Rating: NNNN
Why A bitter but decadent Imperial Stout that could probably withstand a shot into space (you’re welcome, aliens). Split one with a pal (it’s 10% ABV, after all) or sate your sweet tooth by drizzling it over vanilla ice cream.
Price 473 ml/$5.25
Availability LCBO 410779, limited quantities
Tree Brewing Old School Stout
Rating: NNNN
Why Dubbed “Old School” because it’s the Kelowna-based brewery’s interpretation of a classic dry stout, this is a creamy, flavour-packed and straightforward example of the style. Keep a few on hand to crack during your next cheese massacre.
Price 650 ml/$5
Availability LCBO 420323
