For fans of stouts that celebrate coffee in all its glory, Highland Park Brewery’s Griffith Batch #9 is a must-try.
Brewed annually with Trystero Coffee, this stout captures the essence of a perfectly balanced cup of freshly roasted coffee, wrapped in the comforting embrace of mlik chocolate and vanilla bean.
On a cool California winter evening, this beer proved to be the perfect companion, delivering warmth, richness, and just the right amount of indulgence.
Appearance
Griffith Batch #9 pours a deep, dark brown, bordering on black, with a medium brown head that dissipates quickly.
While the head doesn’t linger, the beer leaves a solid lacing on the glass, a testament to its well-crafted nature.
Aroma
The nose is dominated by robust coffee aromas, thanks to the Ethiopia Yirgacheffe Mengesha Farm Natural beans roasted by HPB’s bud Gred at Trystero Coffee.
Though secondary aromas are subtle, the straightforward coffee bouquet is inviting and invigorating.
Griffith Batch #9 Tasting Notes
This stout delivers exactly what its aroma promises: layers of delightful coffee flavor supported by hints of milk chocolate and vanilla bean.
The balance is impeccable, with no single note overpowering the others.
The coffee lingers pleasantly on the palate, making each sip as enjoyable as the last.
Mouthfeel
Griffith Batch #9 boasts a smooth, medium-bodied texture with light carbonation.
It strikes a wonderful balance—not too heavy, yet far from thin—making it a versatile choice for stout lovers.
Balance & Approachability
While not a beginner’s stout, Griffith Batch #9 is approachable and welcoming.
Its absence of barrel-aging and heavy alcohol notes makes it accessible without compromising on flavor complexity.
Pairing Potential
Though enjoyed on its own, this stout would pair beautifully with chocolate-forward desserts.
A brown butter chocolate chip cookie would complement its coffee notes perfectly, while a rich tiramisu would elevate the experience to a decadent level.
Final Notes
Sipping Griffith Batch #9 on a mild California winter evening was nothing short of delightful. Enjoyed in the comfort of home with the proper Griffith glassware, the experience was as refined as the stout itself.
This beer is a testament to the brewers at Highland Park Brewery and their ability to crank out delicious beers in any style, in this case an imperial stout that is bold, balanced, and thoroughly enjoyable.
Have you tried this batch of Griffith or any of the other Griffith stout varieties? We would love to hear about it! Drop us a message here.
