effervescent refractions

The ominous darkness of this bottle promised an exciting reviewing session. I was not let down by the pour: a sinister black hue topped of a fizzy tan crown that dissipated quickly into the void. A foreboding atmosphere accompagnies the first whiff. Many aromas intertwine and interact as you inspect the nose. Dark malts and fruits echo each other and call for a sip. I resisted as I could, and tried to analyze all these sensations. Roasted coffee, dark chocolate and oak dominate the background while blackberries, raspberries and apples mingle with salted butter, biscuits and toast. The first taste was surprisingly uneventful. Very few of the fragrances I had recognized were noticeable and a large malt profile seemed to quench all pretenders. Roasted sugars and coffee reign terribly over the flavor of this brew giving it a stout-like quality. The mouthfeel is slightly redeemed by the velevety smooth palate that finishes dry and salty. I was a bit disappointed by the second part of this beer - maybe I was expecting too much. Not my favorite Unibroue.