Drink of the Week: The Big Molé Imperial Stout

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Though he hasn’t opened his Boulder taproom yet, you ought to be familiar with one of Aaron Uhl’s ales — especially if you’re a hophead digging the 21st century hazy craze.

But in addition to all those dry-hopped juicy/hazy IPAs, Uhl makes one mean stout. His Big Molé Imperial Stout has been known to frequent a can or two, but tastes best on tap. Lucky for you, The Big Molé is one of the guest stouts featured at Mountain Sun Pubs & Breweries’ Stout Month.

Clocking in at a deceptive 13% alcohol by volume, The Big Molé is jet black with a slight translucent brownish/reddish rim. It comes sans head — evidence of its high ABV — but the nose exhibits plenty of cinnamon and vanilla and a tickle of peppery spice. The brew is full and creamy in the mouth, with a good deal of heat between rich and decadent malts. The heat lingers but doesn’t overwhelm. According to the tasting notes, it’s a rather international affair: The cinnamon is of Indonesian and Vietnamese origin, the cacao nibs are courtesy Ecuador, the ancho chilies hail from Mexico and the vanilla beans are Tahitian.

It’s outstanding. Here’s hoping that when Uhl does open his taproom in March — at 5460 Conestoga Court, Boulder — The Big Molé will be a staple.