Enlightened Despot (2019)
Lickinghole Creek Craft Brewery
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A Note on This Beer
The newest iPhone, the next Marvel movie, Rolling Stones tickets -- there are some things people will wait all year for, then stand in line for hours to get.
In Virginia, the “it” thing craft zealots patiently await is the 4.20 BA-rated Enlightened Despot Bourbon Barrel-Aged Imperial Stout.
Lickinghole Creek Craft Brewery releases it just once each spring, and if you go to the brewery you’ll be greeted by a mob of thirsty Stout fans hiking through the sunny fields around the taproom. They’re all trying to snag a bottle from one of just 88 cases in existence!
If anyone asks, tell them you’re from Virginia. Locals tend to get a little jealous when outsiders come in to snatch up their tiny supply. So if you plan to make the trip, you might want to start workin' on your accent!
It’ll be worth the effort, because this year’s version of Enlightened Despot was aged in Kentucky Bourbon Barrels for over a year. The flavor of 10 different specialty grains provides a roasted caramel base for the invigorating notes of top-shelf Bourbon garnished with a freshly sliced orange peel.
Before you start worrying about lining up with all those Stout fans, remember that Enlightened Despot’s oaky opulence is 11.3% ABV and smooth as molasses. Totally worth the wait...for those that have to.
Of course, you won’t need to stand in line for this rare brew, cuz we’ve got the only stash that’s leaving Virginia. You can keep it around to swig before you line up for something else that catches your fancy.
You could even save it for next year, when you trek out to Virginia for this Despot’s next edition… Roadtrip, anyone?!
*For deeper, smoother, more chocolatey flavors cellar Enlightened Despot for up to 2 years! Or open right away for a bold and boozy treat.
Rated 4.20 on BeerAdvocate; 4.10 on Untappd