Hump Day Happiness

Picked this up while in Erie for the Beer on The Bay 2 a couple weeks ago. This was purchased at Wegmans which was roughly 3-6 dollars cheaper than any of the 6pack stores in Pittsburgh. If this is how things will be once Giant Eagle starts selling we could have a problem for the little guy.

Southern Tier Iniquity Imperial Black Ale
brewery: Southern Tier – southerntierbrewing.com
style: Imperial Black Ale
abv: 9%
serving size: 22oz
glass used: tulip
price: $8

Overview
The hexagram talisman has been used around the world for centuries to invoke magic and good luck. The six–point star is also the customary symbol of the brewer, representing the essential aspects of purity: water, hops, grain, malt, yeast, and of course, the brewer. Wishes of good fortune often collaborate with the brewer’s creativity to yield dramatic results. We carefully chose the name for this Imperial India Black Ale, Iniquity – a word opposing goodness. Why? This beer is contrary to what one may expect from an IPA; this is an ale as black as night. It is the antithesis of Unearthly. Some may consider it an immoral act to blacken an ale. We suggest they don’t rely on conventional standards. Allow the darkness to consume you. Cheers!

What I think
The pour lived up to its name. Dark as dark can be and capped with a creamy tan head. Hoppy nose to the Iniquity with a slight sweetness that reminded me of Unearthly’s evil brother. Kinda like the evil superman, this one can only be stopped by one… the Oak Aged Unearthly. Its a fight I’d love to be a part of.  I did find the paleness in this refreshing and the blanket of hops on my palate was comforting. Slight smooth creamy finish added with the complexity to each taste has pushed this to my top 10 list.

Spoon’s rating: A