On the label it says, "Malt Beverage aged in an Islay Scotch Whisky Barrel", and man, that is exactly what it tastes like.  No false advertising here, this tastes like,... beer aged in an Islay Scotch Barrel.  For those who may be unfamiliar with Islay Scotches,... I describe drinking Islay Scotch like this,... It's like drinking Scotch and smoking a cigar simultaneously.  Islay Scotches generally have so much smoked peatiness in the flavor profile that it really gives this, 'smoking a cigar' vibe.  So, back to BrewDog Storm, it tastes like I'm drinking a beer, and smoking a cigar at the same time.  I suppose the downside is that, as it turns out, it doesn't seem as pleasant as actually drinking Islay Scotch.  Perhaps if the beer was a darker beer like a porter or something, but this beer is more like an American Pale Lager or an American Pale Ale, with strong peaty smokiness added.  So, there doesn't seem to be enough meatiness to the beer to balance out all that smoke.  I like it though, don't get me wrong, but it almost seems like the smokiness overpowers the 'beeriness'.  Therefore, I'm almost inclined to say that all the peaty smokiness is too much of a good thing.  I like it, in fact the more I drink it the more I like it, and quite frankly, it's making me crave a glass of Laphroaig.  Still, I don't seem to Love it and it's not as good as actual Scotch especially say a 15 year old Laphroaig.

By the way, BrewDog Storm is classified as an American Double / Imperial IPA, but I have to say, it doesn't taste like one to me.  Personally, when it comes to taste, to me, this isn't even an IPA, when it comes to hoppiness this is more like an American Pale Ale, and like I said above, maybe even an American Pale Lager.  The real standout flavor for this beer is the Islay Smokiness.  So, my advice would be, if you're looking for an American Double / Imperial IPA, look elsewhere.  However, if you're looking for a beer with Islay peaty smokiness, then BrewDog Storm may be worth a try.

I don't rate beers based on how they fit within their style, I rate them based on how much I like them.  Normally, I think that works out just fine, however in a case like this, BrewDog Storm is going to end up the highest rated American Double / Imperial IPA at BeerTripper.com despite the fact, it's probably a terrible example of the 'Style'.  So, keep that in mind, especially if you happen to be reading this because you are looking for a nice American Double IPA to try.

Bottle Cap

Brewery Website

BeerTripper Rating

http://www.brewdog.com/

Alcohol Concentration

8.00

American Double / Imperial IPA

Ale