Sam Adams Wee heavy

From Wikipedia:


Strong Scotch Ale is also known as "Wee Heavy". Examples of beers brewed in the USA under the name Wee Heavy tend to be 7% abv and higher, while Scottish brewed examples, such as Belhaven's Wee Heavy can be found between 5.5% and 6.5% abv. On the other hand, Scottish brewed exceptions include Traquair House Ale which is brewed to a strength of 7.2% abv, and Traquair Jacobite Ale which is 8% abv. McEwan's scotch ale is also 8% abv ^[19].


Unveiled recently as part of Sam Adams' "Imperial Series", this beer is incredible. Traditionally, "Imperial" refers to a style of beer known as Imperial Russian Stout, but in recent years has come to be used to describe a style's "big brother", like Sam Adams' Imperial White, or the Empyrean Limited Edition Imperial Pale Ale both of which had higher ABV than was typical for the style. I was somewhat skeptical about the "Wee Heavy", thinking it was just a jacked up version of their Scotch Ale (part of their Brewmaster's Collection), but this is over and above...and beyond!


Wee Heavy was darker than I expected, a deep mahogany, rich brown head, and an aroma that evokes barbecue! Lots of caramel and hints of chocolate under the smokiness, but the smokiness is smooth, not the "liquid smoke" crap that some smoked ales have. Good stuff, I'd try it again!