Weyerbacher - Heresy

Finally back from a brief hiatus. A couple weeks of travel followed by a brief cold put a bit of a damper on beer reviews. But, I've been stocking the fridge and have a good lineup ready to be enjoyed. First up is Heresy.
  
Bio
Heresy is limited-release, oak-aged imperial stout from Easton, PA's Weyerbacher Brewing Co. Good thing I read my newsletters from Ken at East Wake Wines & Craft Brew. Otherwise, I might have missed it!

8.0% ABV

Appearance
Heresy pours a thick, opaque brown-black color. It has a dense, foamy mocha head, which leaves heavy lacing.

Aroma
The aroma is strong. Roasted malts are prominent. It has an oaky, bourbon character with some coffee and smooth cocoa notes. Hints of sweet, dark fruit also come through, especially as it warms.

Taste & Feel 

Pretty much a typical stout... full body; smooth, creamy mouthfeel. The flavor is dark and roasty, with plenty of cocoa and vanilla present. There's also plenty of tart fruitiness. 

It has a nice, earthy finish.

Verdict
Good. A bit sweet and fruity for a stout, but I found the earthy, oak character to be a nice addition.

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Aventinus - Weizen-Eisbock

Bio
An ice-distilled wheat doppelbock, brewed by G. Schneider & Sohn of Germany

12.0% ABV

Appearance
Pours a cloudy, raisin brown color.It has a tall, pillowy cream head, which quickly dissipates and leaves modest lacing.

Aroma
The aroma has a rich, caramel maltiness loaded with sweet, sticky, plummy fruit notes. Despite the high ABV, there's only a slight alcohol burn in the nose.

Taste & Feel
Taste is strong and malty. Much like the aroma, it is filled with sweet, syrupy caramel and plum notes. I enjoyed the warm raisin finish and the touch of apricot in the aftertaste. 

It has a medium body and rich, smooth flavor.

Verdict
A tasty brew. The high alcohol content hides itself well. The price is a bit steep, but worth grabbing a bottle or two.

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