96 Scottish Stout, Belhaven Brewery (Scotland). 7% ABV (1/09)
Dark brown black color with a dark tan head. Aromas of baker’s chocolate, charred nuts and clay follow through on a round, supple entry to a dry-yet-fruity medium-full body with mashed raisin and baked apple notes. Finishes with a long, rich chocolate-covered dried fruit and nut fade. A superbly balanced and purely crafted strong stout with fantastic dimensional flavor.

93 Obsidian Stout, Deschutes Brewery (OR). 6.4% ABV (1/10)
Nearly opaque dark brown color. Mild aromas of cocoa dusted citrus and dark caramel have a lightly smoky edge and follow through on a round, supple entry to a dry-yet-fruity medium-to-full body with good depth and dried apple and roasted coffee notes. Finishes with a firm, slightly astringent baker’s chocolate and grilled citrus fade. A dense flavored, nicely balanced and very tasty strong stout.