Wolf King Warrior is an imperial stout (duh, I mean he’s a king) with 8.2% ABV from Rusty Rail Brewing Co. located in Mifflinburg, PA. The admittedly awesome name comes from the Costa Rican Warrior One coffee beans used in making this brew. Sourced through a partnership between Lycoming College and Golden Valley Farm Coffee Roasters proceeds from this coffee go towards funding research opportunities in the developing world.
As you’d expect Warrior pours to a dark brown almost black color with decent sized khaki head that slowly dissolves into its base. The aroma is not overly strong, but what does through is thoroughly roasted coffee grinds, cocoa and some pleasant black licorice.
Some imperial stouts can be a bit too sweet, this is not a problem from Wolf King, it’s flavor instead is dark, ripe with roasted coffee notes and a subtle smokiness. Rusty Rail’s imperial certainly has some sweetness, especially with caramel upfront, but it’s rich flavors are what really carry the brew. Its medium mouthfeel leaves a bit of flavor on the tongue in between sips.
There’s more than one way to brew an imperial stout and Wolf King Warrior proves this with its slightly bitter, lower than usual ABV profile that provides a fulfilling tasting experience.
