Founders Brewing Company, out of Michigan, creates some absolutely incredible beer that I’ve yet to be displeased with. While at Canal Street in Reading, PA this past weekend, we had a unique opportunity to have their KBS (Kentucky Breakfast Stout) on tap, served only in a 6oz snifter at a whopping 11.2% ABV.

The volume seemed a bit small at first, but after consuming 6oz, it seemed to be about perfect. The miniature snifter held this deep black body with absolutely zero head and left a weak lacing, though definitely present. There was some charred brown color in the body as well, present on the lacing left behind.

My initial impression of the nose on this one was bold and strong. The nose is filled with roasted alcohol esters and a dark-roasted coffee flavor. Some grilled and burnt wood also came through, followed by a slight hint of vanilla beans, adding another dimension to the flavor. I can’t stress enough how boozey this one smells; very, very boozey.

Despite it’s powerful nose, the mouthful wasn’t all that bad. Up front you’re hit immediately with the alcohol and nothing more. Thankfully, it’s gone almost as quickly as it sneaked up on you, and the rich flavors of the beer come through. Heavy coffee, barley and malt notes dominate with the silky, creamy vanilla at the finish. The coffee notes are really what stick with you throughout your consumption. The alcohol heat is gone quickly and the vanilla disappears into thin area. It’s all coffee and Tiramisu the rest of the ride.

This 6oz Kentucky Breakfast Stout from Founders was $4.50 and proved to be the perfect volume serving for this beer. While it wasn’t hard to get down at all, I couldn’t see myself drinking much more than 6oz at one sitting. It’s not sessionable, nor would you really want a beer like this to be. It’s a strong sipper with some immense, delicious and intoxicating flavors. If you ever have the chance, you have to try this one on draft.

Overall: 9/10