Troon Brewing Merchants of Blood | Imperial Double Coffee Stout

Technical Details

Tasting Profile

Merchants of Blood pours a profound, ink-black torrent into the glass, building a dense mocha-brown head with impressive retention that slowly settles into a rich, creamy collar. On the nose, this Imperial Double Coffee Stout from Troon Brewing announces itself with assertive roasted espresso, dark bittersweet chocolate, and a seductive undercurrent of dark molasses, complemented by subtle whispers of vanilla and dried dark fruit. The palate is immediately enveloped in a full, almost viscous body — a hallmark of Troon’s small-batch, high-ABV stout philosophy. Waves of freshly ground coffee and bittersweet cocoa powder dominate the mid-palate, balanced by just enough residual sweetness to keep the experience indulgent rather than austere.

A gentle, warming bitterness threads through every sip, lending structure and depth. The finish is long, roasty, and remarkably clean for a beer of this intensity, with lingering notes of espresso grounds and dark toffee. Best enjoyed at cellar temperature to allow its complexity to fully unfold. A coveted release from one of New Jersey’s most sought-after cult breweries, Merchants of Blood rewards collectors and stout enthusiasts alike.

Food Pairing

Troon Brewing Merchants of Blood Imperial Double Coffee Stout pairs magnificently with a rich dark chocolate fondant or flourless chocolate torte, where its roasted coffee depth amplifies the dessert’s bittersweet intensity. For a savoury contrast, serve alongside a long-braised beef short rib glazed with espresso and black pepper — the beer’s dense, roasty backbone stands up beautifully to the richness of the meat.

Troon Brewing Merchants of Blood