Sublimely Self-Righteous Ale is another style bender from Stone Brewing Co. Beer Advocate calls it an “American Black Ale” (now there’s a vague designation). Ratebeer says it’s a Black IPA…Nah, too much roast. I’m calling it an American Imperial Stout. But again, does it really matter?

This is one from Stone that I had never tried. I was happy to have the chance. Here’s my notes:

Sublimely Self-Righteous Ale
Stone Brewing Co, San Diego, California
Style: American Imperial Stout?
Serving Style: 22 oz Bottle

Aroma: All of the aromatics are surprisingly low. Pine and grapefruit hops with balancing levels of coffee-like roast. A bit of alcohol becomes apparent as the beer warms.

Appearance: Opaque black. Full, rocky, beige head that sticks around.

Flavor: Much more roasted malt character than the aroma lets on. Stout-like and Creamy. Coffee and dark chocolate. Bit of sugary sweetness. Slightly astringent roasted-malt bitterness gives a boost to the medium-high hop bitterness. Although it’s a bitter beer, the perceived bitterness is lower than the claimed 90 IBUs.  Brassy pine and grapefruit hop flavors with some orange notes peeking around the corner. A touch of alcohol comes as the beer warms. A second bite of roasty bitterness hits on the way down and lingers into the finish.

Mouthfeel: Creamy and rich malt balanced by a bit of hop and roast astringency. Medium-full body. Medium carbonation.

Overall Impression: I don’t tend to favor hoppy black beers, especially those with high levels of American hop flavors. Roasted malt and American hops often do battle in my mouth. This one was quite nice.

Stone’s triumphant march into Minnesota happens next week. Stone Week Minnesota kicks off on Tuesday the 29th and features pub specials, tap takeovers, and beer-store tastings at location throughout the Twin Cities. Co-Founder and CEO Greg Koch will be on hand along with a gaggle of other brewery reps.