Goose Island Beer Co. of Chicago has made waves in the craft beer scene for their highly-anticipated annual release of Bourbon County Stout variants. It is widely acknowledged that Goose Island played a significant role in popularizing the barrel-aged stout beer style. The original Bourbon County Stout continues to be a favorite among beer enthusiasts, and since 2010, additional variants have been introduced to the lineup.
The 2024 Bourbon County Stout Variants
The 2024 Bourbon County Stout lineup features several exciting variants that are sure to capture the attention of beer lovers across the nation. One standout is the 2024 Bourbon County Brand Original Stout, which boasts an impressive 14.7% ABV. This beer is aged for an average of 16 months in a blend of bourbon barrels from respected distilleries such as Buffalo Trace, Heaven Hill, Four Roses, and Wild Turkey.
Another notable variant is the 2024 Bourbon County Brand Vanilla Rye Stout, a new take on a classic favorite. This rye imperial stout is aged in rye whiskey barrels for a full year and is finished with Madagascar vanilla beans. The result is a rich and decadent beer that is sure to tantalize the taste buds.
The 2024 Bourbon County Brand Macaroon Stout offers a unique flavor profile, with the addition of cocoa nibs, sweet candied ginger, and toasted coconut. This imperial stout is aged in bourbon barrels for a full year to enhance its complexity and depth. The goal is to evoke the flavors of coconut macaroons in every sip.
Collaboration takes center stage with the 2024 Bourbon County Brand Bardstown Cask Finish Stout, a result of the partnership between Goose Island and Bardstown Bourbon Company. This imperial stout is aged in Bardstown’s straight rye whiskey barrels before being transferred to hybrid oak and cherry wood barrels for finishing. The combination of flavors and aging processes creates a truly special beer that is sure to impress.
A Closer Look at the Proprietor’s Variant
The annual Proprietor’s variant of Bourbon County Stout is typically a Chicago-only release, offering a unique experience for local beer enthusiasts. However, in a surprising twist, the 2024 Proprietor’s variant breaks tradition by being a barleywine rather than a stout. Aged in bourbon barrels and infused with tamarind, lime, guajillo peppers, and piloncillo sugar, this variant pushes boundaries and challenges expectations.
In a statement issued by Todd Ahsmann, the president of Goose Island Beer Co., the legacy of Bourbon County Stout is celebrated. He remarks on the brand’s pioneering spirit and commitment to quality, highlighting the industry benchmark set by Bourbon County Stout. The 2024 lineup of variants continues to uphold this legacy while exploring new flavors and pushing boundaries in the craft beer world.
The 2024 Bourbon County Stout variants represent a bold and innovative approach to craft beer brewing. With a focus on quality, tradition, and creativity, Goose Island continues to set the standard for barrel-aged stouts and push the boundaries of what is possible in the world of craft beer. Beer lovers can look forward to the release of these highly-anticipated variants on Black Friday, November 29, 2024.