Ballast Point The Commodore

This 6.5% ABV American Stout is from the Ballast Point Brewing Company of San Diego, California. 

The beer pours black in appearance. There is an inch of brown head. The aroma is dark roasted malt, char, with star anise/black licorice. The taste follows the aromas, with a lot of char, some coffee, and less anise/licorice than in the aroma. The finish is quite dry and very bitter. The beer drinks very smooth, with just enough body to hold up the intense flavors.