Left Hand "Galactic Cowboy" Nitro Imperial Stout

It seems like I've done more of these Left Hand Brewing beers than I actually have evidence for on this blog. I could've sworn that I've had a lot more of their beverages, and I may just be thinking about it in terms of volume. When I came across the first Nitro milk stout that I had from them in February 2013, I knew that these guys knew what they were doing and was in favor of them producing as many beers as possible. It's surprising I haven't seen more of them.

I don't know what I had been expecting, but I didn't expect the distinct sound of the nitrogen widget that I associate with the Guinness cans. Interestingly, Left Hand decided not to leave theirs free-floating atop the beer, so it is adhered in some way to the bottom of the can. Presumably, this was an intentional act that will improve the beer somehow, and I assume they know what they're doing. Black liquid with the off-white head does very much remind me of a Guinness, and this is accentuated by the profuseness of the nitrogen bubbles that pervade the entire beer. It has been some time since I had a good Imperial Stout, and I forgot that they often bring a delicious aroma of scorched wood and chocolate with a little bit of coffee coming in.

First sip is a delightful combination of smoothness from the nitrogen and solidity from the Imperial Stout. There is cherry flavor somewhere in the middle of that beer, but that smoky finish combined with the smoothness of the nitrogen really makes the drink feel like a special occasion. I can sip this all night, sitting by the fire on the patio, and I would certainly enjoy myself. 

Tip-in is all creamy smooth with light coffee and smoking embers. The middle is a solid pillar of earth with chocolate that has been lightly dipped in coffee marbled throughout that pillar. The finish turns smoky and bitter, but the smoothness of the nitrogen dulls any edge that it would have.

Bottom Line: Get thee to a beer store.

5.0/5