Goose Island 2021 Bourbon County Stout collection blends creativity and craft

Beer drinkers do not have to rise to the level of cicerone to thirst for the Goose Island 2021 Bourbon County Stout collection. The annual release of the limited-edition beer offerings comes with much anticipation. While these beers are often meant to be savored not chugged, enjoying one with a good friend is the perfect way to spend the day.

Over the years, Goose Island has offered these special bourbon barrel aged beers. While the special offerings were first bottled in 2005, the celebrated beers are sought after year after year.

Over time, the brewers at Goose Island looked to push the creativity level with the aged beer. Although not aged to the point of no return, the nuanced flavors from the aging process proves that beer is more than just another pour in a pint.

From being aged in Pappy Van Winkle Barrels to asking the brewers to push the limits of a beer flavor with the Proprietor’s Blend, enjoying one of these bottles is an experience unlike any other. Whether paired with a great meal or slowly sipped on a leisurely day, any beer lover can find an excuse to buy and enjoy one of these Goose Island offerings.

What beers are in the Goose Island 2021 Bourbon County Stout collection?

The Goose Island 2021 Bourbon County Stout Collection has Bourbon County Stout, Bourbon County Cherry Wood Stout, Bourbon County Reserve 150 Stout, Bourbon County Double Barrel Toasted Barrel Stout, Bourbon County Reserve Blanton’s Stout, Bourbon County Classic Cola Stout, Bourbon County Fourteen Stout, and Proprietor’s Bourbon County Stout. While many people would be pleased to try any of these particular offerings a few stand out in the collection.

The Bourbon County Cherry Wood Stout is a barbecue lover’s dream. Having used a special method to pass the beer through honeycomb drilled cherry wood, the infusion of that flavor is intriguing. While not necessarily having a smoky quality, there is a sweetness balanced by a rustic appeal.

This offering was the first time that Goose Island tried this method. The cherry is offset by some toasted notes. For anyone who uses cherry wood in their smoker, this beer is a must try. Whether paired with a classic brisket or even some chicken, this beer could start a new trend. What other woods could be used to enhance beer’s flavor?

Another trend in the bourbon world has been toasting. The Bourbon County Double Barrel Toasted Barrel Stout uses Elijah Craig Toasted Bourbon Barrels. While this beer has some traditional sweetness, like vanilla and caramel, the marshmallow characteristics adds to the intrigue.

While beer might not be a dessert, this beer with its chocolate, caramel and other sweet flavors make it a perfect after dinner beverage. Sometimes it is best to drink that sweet ending.

Of course, there are several Goose Island 2021 Bourbon County Stout Collection that will have bourbon fans running to get more than one bottle. From Blanton’s Original Single Barrel Bourbon to the Old Forester’s 150th Anniversary Bourbon Barrels, the highly sought after bourbons make the stout an impeccable sip. While characteristics of the infamous bourbons infuse their characteristics into the beer, it is more than just a single note.

These two specialty beers deserve a moment to ponder. From the collaborative effort to the attention to craft, sometimes the best partnerships come from mutual respect. In this case, the result is a sip that asks the drinker to contemplate what is possible.

Whether or not every beer drinker can distinguish the various flavors and discuss the importance of aroma and a lingering finish might not be the thrust of these annual beer releases. For a moment, the beer drinker is challenged to think what is possible.

Even if that iced cold lager is delightful on a hot day, sometimes beer can be more than just a beverage to drink quickly. Appreciating the craftsmanship and creativity that the brewer spends years cultivating deserves its time to savor.

Which Goose Island Bourbon County Stout Collection tops your must drink list? Do you save these beers for special occasions?