Brew Dog Paradox Smokehead Takes Command And Enjoys The Spoils

Brew Dog, makers of, at one time at least, the biggest beer on earth at 55% abv, present another monster of a brew with this whisky barrel aged Imperial Stout.  While the Smokehead isn't quite as outrageously potent as some of their other brews, 10% is nothing to laugh at, and the promise of prolific whisky notes adds to the gnarly factor. 

Black, black and black in color with a weak tan head that disappears without warning, leaving a thin layer of lace on top. 

Smoky, peaty, boozy, piny and earthy notes assault the nose in the first wave.  A second push throws down some dark, bitter chocolates, cherries, plums, raisins and vinegar. 

Has an initial sapid, and sweeter than expected character to the tongue, with a quick rush of scotch notes, charred wood, dark chocolates and hops.  I poured this one a bit chilled, but after it warmed some candied sweetness (licorice, bubblegum) presented itself, and the whisky character truly began to take over, although the balancing sweetness and bitterness never strayed too far. 

Mouth-feel lies on the heavy side of medium; a bit thinner than expected, but still substantial.     

There seems to be a debate flourishing (and in my opinion infecting Beer Advocate) about session vs. extreme beer.  My take is that there is plenty of room and need for both.  I've always been enamored by boundary pushing, whether it be in music, literature, art or yes, these days, beer.

While I admit I dig the fact that Brew Dog unashamedly flip the finger to convention, I realize they at times do so by sacrificing consistency.  That being said, their brews are always interesting, flavorful and thought-provoking, and I can find nothing particularly wrong with that.  

In conclusion, the Paradox Smokehead is a brilliantly bold and flavorful beer that makes no apologies.  This is definitely not a beer to drink while strategizing your next move, but a beer to be sipped and enjoyed in triumph after you have vanquished your enemies.    
  
Speaking of smoke and head (yes, there is a marijuana reference there)...for your listening enjoyment I present a couple more British exports that ostensibly tend to enjoy life on the heavier side.