ASPEN Colorado is an affluent ski resort town and attracts the rich and famous.
However there is a darker more creative side to this alpine city. It was home to author Hunter S Thompson, the graphic genius Ralph Steadman and one of the most original American breweries.
The Flying Dog Brewery started out as a brewpub owned and run by George Stranahan, a friend and contemporary of Hunter S Thompson. The brewery drafted long time Thompson conspirator Ralph Steadman to design the labels, and set about brewing some fantastic all American beers. After years of growth the brewery moved to Maryland and has never looked back.
Following Hunter S Thompson’s death the brewery released Gonzo Imperial Porter to celebrate his life. Gonzo Porter is a particularly complex 7.8%abv new world porter that is bursting with resinous American hop character.
Pouring a striking pitch black Gonzo offers up aromas of piny citrus tinged hops, roasty espresso and dark chocolate all underpinned by a firm biscuity malt character.
In the mouth the beer is smooth and rounded with a burst of sweetness followed by dark chocolate, an oily hop note and a long roasty finish.
Available in small “nip” bottles from Regional Wines and Hashigo Zake, Gonzo Imperial Porter is part of a series of strong beers the brewery releases called the Canis Major range.
Claudine Earley’s Wine Column returns next week.