3 Sons Brewing Co. Vintage Nectar 2020 Barrel-Aged Imperial Stout

Technical Details

Tasting Profile

4.3Untappd

The 3 Sons Brewing Co. Vintage Nectar 2020 pours an impenetrable, pitch-black hue with only the faintest wisp of dark tan foam — a head that dissipates quickly, leaving thin curtains of lacing clinging to the glass. On the nose, the 32-month bourbon barrel aging makes itself immediately known: rich waves of vanilla, brown sugar, and toasted oak mingle with deep espresso and a subtle port-wine fruitiness, creating an arresting and complex bouquet. On the palate, this is a full-throttle, near-syrupy imperial stout of extraordinary density. The mouthfeel is thick, coating, and borderline chewy — a testament to the extended barrel contact.

Bittersweet roasted malt and dark chocolate lead the charge, followed by notes of caramel, molasses, dried plum, and a gentle char that emerges in the mid-palate. The bourbon influence is immense yet harmoniously integrated, delivering warming alcohol without harshness. The finish is long, bittersweet, and gently boozy, with lingering toffee and dried fruit. Despite its monumental 14.5% ABV, the Vintage Nectar 2020 is deceptively smooth and rewards patience — an ideal candidate for short-to-medium-term cellaring. Explore more on the Untappd page: https://untappd.com/b/3-sons-brewing-co-vintage-nectar-2020/5189784

Food Pairing

The 3 Sons Vintage Nectar 2020 imperial stout pairs magnificently with an aged Comté or Époisses, where the cheese’s earthy intensity mirrors the beer’s dark fruit and bourbon depth. For a decadent dessert pairing, serve alongside a flourless dark chocolate torte with a salted caramel glaze — the bittersweet cocoa notes echo the stout’s roasted malt core and vanilla barrel character.

3 Sons Brewing Co. Vintage Nectar (2020)