This is one of a few Founder’s beers that we’ve reviewed on this site, so check out our other reviews here. Kentucky Breakfast Stout is one of many Bourbon beers that has made it’s way to the marketplace recently. (Before I forget, I do want to thank Howard for this bottle of KBS.) Not only does Founders put Bourbon in this particular offering, they put plenty of coffee as well. KBS is rated highly on the Beer Advocate chain of reviews. This is one of those occasions that I’ve got to part ways from Beer Advocate’s collective enthusiasm about a beer. I’ll state in all honesty that sometimes I think it’s apt when coffee is added to a beer, but other times I think it is overbearing; there’s too much in this one.
The Pour: KBS poured with a very black, thick, and brooding presence. There was a brief, dark brown head that quickly dissipated. No matter about the head, though, it’s merely an observation and not a criticism (at least in this case).
The Nose: If ever a beer had coffee in it, this one fit that quality. There was a ton of coffee on the nose, which had a stale quality to it. Bourbon vanillas and caramel also made a full appearance in KBS. The peppery qualities of the oak as well as the smoky char added to the Bourbon qualities.
The Taste: Honestly, I expected more Bourbon than I got. I don’t know if Goose Island’s Bourbon County Stout spoiled me on this account or if I just like more Bourbon tastes (being a Bourbon lover). At any rate, I would have welcomed more. A pretty full mouth-feel as well as stale coffee were some of the most perceivable qualities in this Founder’s beer. Alcohol warmth intermingled with the Bourbon caramel, vanilla, peppered oak and smoky char. There was a slight burn end with a pretty dry finish.
Overall, I thought it was still a pretty good beer, even if the coffee was a little over-bearing while the Bourbon was under-bearing. I personally don’t think it holds a candle to Goose Island’s Bourbon County, but I would certainly drink this beer again. I’m also sorry that I wasn’t able to make it to Chumley’s in Broad Ripple to try their Canadian Breakfast Stout, which incorporated Canadian Whiskey and maple syrup. I guess you can’t have it all.
Mike’s Rating:
Overall Satisfaction: 
Among other Stouts: 
What do other people think about this one?
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I love KBS, and it’s easily in my top 10, or even 5. I was lucky enough to end up with 18 bottles of this year’s release, which I cherish dearly. I agree that there’s more coffee and less bourbon compared to BCS, but I think that’s a good thing. BCS is a big monster of a beer that shouldn’t be taken lightly, while this is big, but still approachable. The CBS was truly legendary, especially since I have a bit of an addiction to maple things. We went through a sixtel in 27 minutes that night at Chumley’s.
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I love maple syrup, too…that’s why I’m a little hurt about it. What you think about this beer and what I think shows how preferences can dictate. However, we both agree that it’s good.
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Interesting. I was surprised you ended up giving this 4 stars because it seems you were a little disappointed in it given the expectations.
This beer was recommended to me, and I think I’d give it a try although that Goose Island stuff is just mind blowing! I’m also really curious to see how you review the Canadian Breakfast Stout. (sounds like it should have bacon in it or something)!
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BTW, B Grade Maple syrup from VT. Nothing is better. 5 Stars.
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I used some grade b in a beer that I brewed recently.
Yeah, about the 4 stars. I gave it 4 because it is still well made and actually a good beer. I think people rate it too highly, but tried to not let it cloud my judgment. I also tried not to let my preference get in the way too much, so I tried to work on quality, complexity, and other things before I tore it apart. I also stated that the coffee was too much, which is why it was lower. I had it at a 3.75 earlier but decided to go a little higher. I think the Goose Island is way better. I will say though that some would see the Bourbon as too much like did the coffee. So, preference on some stuff and attempts at being more objective on others.
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I really wish I would have tried that beer.
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