Ballast Point Sea Monster

This is a 10.0% ABV Imperial Stout brewed with oatmeal from the Ballast Point Brewing Company of San Diego, California. 

The beer pours black, with a tall, thick, foamy, head of tan foam. The aroma is dark roasted malt, chocolate, cocoa, very light star anise. The taste follows the aromas, but kicks everything up a notch. The flavor is much more intense than the aroma. The beer drinks very smooth and creamy. The finish is mostly dry and moderately bitter. It is warming, but holds its 10% ABV well.