95 2008 Imperial Porter, Rogue Ales (OR). 8.2% ABV (3/09)
Deep opaque brown color. Aromas of baker’s chocolate, coffee and burnt pumpernickel toast follow through on a supple entry to a dryish medium-to-full body with molasses and brown butter notes. Finishes with a lovely dark roasted nut and grain fade. A very nicely balanced imperial porter that sets the bar for the style.
92 Top Sail Bourbon Aged Imperial Porter, Full Sail Brewing Co. (OR) Brewmaster Reserve 2010. 9.85% ABV (1/11)
Opaque brown black color. Dense aromas and flavors of chocolate roasted pecans, coconut, dark caramel, baked figs and dates with a supple dry-yet-fruity medium-to-full body and a long, tangy peppercorn and mocha-accented finish. Very nice.
90 Imperial Porter, Breckenridge Brewery (CO). 7.5% ABV (1/10)
Deep russet brown amber color with a saffron rim. Aromas of dark roasted nuts, grain and burnt sugar follow through on a supple, smooth entry to a dry-yet-fruity medium-full body with caramelized dried fruit and peppery spice notes. Finishes with a long, chewy rye flour and mashed raisin fade with light mossy hops. Very nice and begging for food.
89 Nefarious Ten Pin Imperial Porter, Ska Brewing Co. (CO). 8% ABV (1/11)
Nearly opaque brown black color. Rich cherry and orange compote, peppery spice and cocoa nut aromas with a chewy, velvety fruity-yet-dry medium-full body and a pleasing wollop of citrusy, pine and grassy hops and the refreshing finish.
88 Imperial Porter, Full Sail Brewing Co. (OR). 7.5% ABV (1/10)
Opaque inky brown black color with a swirl of tan gray foam. Aromas of bakers chocolate and dark caramel follow through on a smooth creamy entry to a dryish medium-to-full body with great balance and integration. Finishes with refreshing nut, coffee bean and crisp, astringent hop snap.