I’ve been hunting for Brooklyn Brewery’s Black Ops Barrel-aged Imperial Stout ever since I fully dedicated my heart to craft beer. It’s been on my personal beer bucket list for two years. I figured the only way I was ever going to get even a taste of it was to take a trip to the brewery at the right time of year and just camp outside until it opened each morning.
Fast forward to earlier this month, when I found myself at the Memphis Flying Saucer with a couple of work buddies. One of the perks of our job is the opportunity to travel to some of the country’s best cities. It just so happens that there are Flying Saucer locations in quite a few of these cities, so I have the chance to explore new craft beers while drinking my way towards my first plate.
Beerknurds are always on the lookout for new beers to try, and each Memphis trip provides me a chance to sample local, native offerings or take advantage of different options packed in the cooler. I know that Flying Saucer ownership/management challenges and empowers each location to take risks and carry inventory of rare options that may not be found at other establishments.
It’s because of these variables (travels and the Flying Saucer operating MO), that I was able to finally get my chance to try the elusive Brooklyn Black Ops. While not exactly one of the most elusive beers in the country, it’s definitely NOT easy to find. Hell, Brooklyn Brewery even takes a tongue-in-cheek approach to its scarcity, saying Black Ops “does not exist.” Besides, this was a personal conquest.
I come from Dallas, and every whisper of a shipment near me is gone as quickly as a whiff of that creamy, toffee-colored head. When I perused the Downtown Memphis Flying Saucer’s beer menu and saw those beautiful words “Brooklyn Black Ops,” I looked to the sky in thanks and immediately ordered. I was in such a good mood that I even ordered two extra tasting glasses for my friends. I think even our Beergoddess was taken aback by my exuberance.
When the black, incognito 750 ml bottle arrived, I took my obligatory photo and entered my personal conquest onto Untappd (I can hear you rolling your collective eyes right now). Into the snifter I carefully poured the dark, smooth, thick brew and watched the even thicker brown head form. I let it rest while I inhaled the incredibly rich aroma of bourbon, chocolate, vanilla and toasty-caramelly bread. A sting of alcohol raising from the surface. I did the same into the accompanying taster glasses.
I took my first sip and swished it around my mouth and palate. The specialness of this beer made itself known right away. Chocolate, bourbon, some quad-like fruity characteristics, but not really sweet. It was definitely drier than I expected and more effervescent than most Imperial Stouts, both probably due to the champagne yeast, I’m guessing. It was addictive, and only the finishing alcohol burn prevented me from gluttonously downing it.
Rather, I took my time with it and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. The weather was beautiful, the atmosphere within the Saucer was beautiful, the beer was beautiful. All was beautiful. Warm with happiness (and a nice beer buzz), I melted into my chair. Even my drinking partners were in love with the Black Ops. This was a great night. This is what craft beer is all about. No matter what’s on your beer bucket list.
I happily crossed the Brooklyn Black Ops off my beer bucket list. I contemplated asking our Beergoddess for the bottle as a memento, but there was no way my trophy was going to fit or survive in my carry-on for the flight back to Dallas. A photo and the memory of how that beer filled my senses would be my souvenir.
Thank you to the Downtown Memphis Flying Saucer for great service, a great environment and a great beer selection. Thank you, Flying Saucer, for just existing and being what you are.
And thank you, beer.
– Beerknurd, Andy C.
