Final gravity (going into keg) was 1.007, getting me close to 5.9 % abv. Analytical chemist in me means I report it as 5.6-5.95%, I read the beginning gravity as 1.0509, and the final as 1.0065 with the last digits being uncertain (+/- 0.0005). I'm very excited about the abv, since I was aiming at 5-6%, and started with a kit capable of 4.6%.
Now, for the flavor profile. If I had my 'druthers, this would sit in the fridge another week, but I don't have that luxury. There are some surprisingly rich flavors here. I remember the unmolested recipe tasted almost exactly like Guinness, which isn't a bad thing, but I wanted a little more richness, more like a Murphy's. I got it. The generous chocolate malt definitely livened up the front end, and brought a fair amount of richness to the start of the flavor. The initial mouthfeel is almost velvety.
The middle of the flavor is pretty typical for stouts...pronounced sweetness with a mellowing smokiness. The end is where I'm a little disappointed (as is usually the case with these Mr. Beer kits). There is a touch of a tartness on the finish. That said, one day in the fridge has already started mellowing this out, so hopefully by Thursday it will be unnoticeable.
The happy part about this finish is the delayed warm wash of significant ABV. I don't doubt the 5.9% number for a second. This beer is potent and could sneak up on the unawares. *evil laughter*
Overall, I'm proud of this brew. I just needed to start it 4 days earlier.
-James
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