Stillwater Existent

This 7.4% ABV beer is from Stillwater Artisanal Ales. It was brewed and bottled in Stratford, Connecticut. The beer pours mahogany in appearance, with ruby when held to the light. There is a short head of light brown foam. The aroma is dark roasted malt, tangy yeast, sweet, a bit smokey. The taste follows the aromas, the dark roasted malt blossoming into char, with a coffee-like bitterness. There is sweetness, but the tangy yeast and dark roasts keep it in check. The finish is fairly dry. It has very fine bottle conditioned carbonation. There is a hint of peaty smoke. This is nicely done.