Toppling Goliath Assassin 2023 Imperial Stout | Barrel-Aged 15.9%

Technical Details

Tasting Profile

4.6Untappd

Toppling Goliath Assassin 2023 pours an impenetrable pitch-black with a thin, fleeting ring of dark mocha foam that hugs the glass and leaves virtually no lacing — a visual signature of its immense, oil-slicked density. On the nose, the bouquet is immediately arresting: waves of deep bourbon oak lead the charge, followed by rich fudge chocolate, roasted molasses, toasted caramel, and a whisper of dried dark fruit. The aromatic depth only intensifies as it warms in the glass, coaxing out subtle vanilla and charred wood nuances that round out the complexity. On the palate, the mouthfeel is massive yet surprisingly fluid — chewy, full-bodied, and robustly smooth without tipping into cloying syrupiness.

Sweetness is pronounced but expertly counterbalanced by the barrel’s tannic oak backbone and a low, restrained bitterness. Flavors of bourbon-laced chocolate truffle, toffee, dark raisin, and roasted malt cascade across the tongue in layers. The finish is long, warming, and distinctly boozy, with lingering echoes of charred oak and fudge. At 15.9% ABV, this is a beer best savored slowly — equally compelling fresh or cellared for 2–3 years to allow further integration. More information and community ratings can be found on the [Untappd page](https://untappd.com/b/toppling-goliath-brewing-co-assassin-2023/5392718).

Food Pairing

Toppling Goliath Assassin 2023 imperial stout finds its ideal match alongside a dark chocolate and salted caramel tart, where the beer’s bourbon fudge character mirrors and amplifies the dessert’s bittersweet richness. For a savory contrast, aged Comté or a sharp cave-ripened blue cheese creates a compelling interplay of salt and sweetness against the stout’s oaky, warming depth — a pairing worthy of the toppling goliath assassin 2023’s legendary status.

Toppling Goliath Assassin Barrel-Aged Imperial Stout (2023)