Deschutes The Abyss Review

Name: Deschutes The Abyss
Style: Russian Imperial Stout
ABV: 11%

Around the end of each year, Deschutes Brewing releases their highly sought after Russian Imperial Stout simply known as "The Abyss,” and yes the ”The” is part of the name. Earlier I reviewed Black Butte XXV Imperial Porter,which is also from Deschutes and their only other notable stronger beer. So it will be interesting to see how this turns out.

The Abyss pours a pitch black color with a relatively thin brown head and decent lacing. The visible carbonation is also fairly mild.

Chocolate & vanilla are fairly prominent in the nose. There is also some notes of bourbon, oak, molasses and licorice.

Likewise, the flavor is also fairly chocolate and vanilla with a more pronouced oak & bourbon flavor, along with a more roasted barley profile. The aftertaste is mainly chocolate malts and licorice.

The body is quite heavy and thick which is paired with mild carbonation. The palate as whole feels very creamy!

This was a very tasty Imperial Stout and a reasobably priced one at that! I know bottles of this beer are in fairly high demand so grab a bottle if you see this.

Deschutes The Abyss - 9.25/10