Uinta Labyrinth Black Ale

Utah is not a state that comes to mind when thinking of American microbrews. Hell, Utah tends to rank in the low 40’s or even 50th when making any sort of list about drinking in the USA. Yet Uinta Brewing Company has been crafting beer in Salt Lake City since 1993. Earlier this year they debuted the Crooked Line Series, which are high alcohol (>8%) beers bottled in 750 mL bottles. The Labyrinth Black Ale was the first I picked up.

They call this a black ale, though it drinks more like an imperial stout. Brewed with liquorice sticks and aged in oak barrels. A soft roast aroma leads into a incredible THICK, almost syrupy mouthfeel. The beer is more sweet than bitter, which is unusual for an imperial stout. A fair bit of molasses, some dark chocolate and dark roasted malts are the dominant flavors. A little oak is detectable as well. Some noticeable alcohol, but still way, way, way too easy drinking for 13.2%. Delightful and delicious.

It’s safe to say I will soon be checking out the rest of the Crooked Line series, which includes a Double IPA and a Barrel-aged Barleywine.