Fremont The Rusty Nail 2022 Barrel-Aged Stout

Technical Details

Tasting Profile

Fremont Brewing’s The Rusty Nail (2022) is a landmark Pacific Northwest imperial oatmeal stout aged 15 months in 12-year-old bourbon barrels with cinnamon bark. It pours an opaque, jet-black with aromas of cinnamon, oak, bourbon, brown sugar, chocolate, molasses, and vanilla. On the palate, rich sweetness meets a gently bitter roast backbone, layered with licorice, smoked malt depth, and a warming umami finish. Full-bodied with moderate carbonation, this 13.6% ABV behemoth is as contemplative as it is indulgent.

Food Pairing

Serve alongside a dark chocolate fondant with salted caramel — the beer’s cinnamon and molasses notes mirror the dessert’s bittersweet depth. Alternatively, pair with a platter of aged sharp cheddar and smoked charcuterie, where the bourbon barrel character cuts through fat and salt with elegance.