Brown's Brewing Calavera Imperial Stout Review

Brown's Brewing Calavera Imperial Stout Review

Brown’s has been a bright spot on our radar this year. The family-owned and -operated brewery produces a wide range of approachable styles, such pale ales and IPAs named for family members (Carla and Joann, we’re looking at you). But it was Calavera that stopped us in our tracks. This imperial stout is aged with ancho chile, vanilla, cinnamon, allspice, and cacao nibs. Our panel appreciated its use of adjuncts without barrel aging, which allows each ingredient to stand out. Moreover, it does so without the syrup-sticky mouthfeel that tends to accompany so many “pastry stouts.” Calavera is fresh on the palate, and velvety-smooth — it’s a wonderful Covid-era beer to sip outside by a fire.