Black Chocolate Stout -- Brooklyn Brewery (Utica, NY)

Boom.  My first imperial in quite a while... and while it masks the 10.6% (ABV) alcohol content well, the kick is still there -- kinda like garlic buried in a tomato sauce. Which, speaking of garlic and tomatoes, this beer can overpower even the strongest food flavors.

Characteristics: Burnt motor oil brown, minimal carbonation, thin but persistent head, medium to heavy body, slow start gives way to dark chocolate roasted malt dominance, with the alcohol sugar/burn emerging only when the beer warms. 

Minor Gripes: It's twice as strong as the average beer -- that's a major kick in the pants after a long day at work.  Rationing isn't just encouraged, it's required.

Bottom Line: As seasonal beers go, the Black Chocolate Stout is definitely a winner.  It's not for everyone, but those who can handle a heavier, darker beer should definitely give it a whirl.

Rating: 7 / 10