Peak XV

 

Peak XV is an Imperial Porter (or Baltic) from Black Diamond Brewing Company in Concord, CA. Peak XV is the name given to the mountain before it was known as Mount Everest. It is a limited release, only sold in 22oz bottles and brewed with fresh vanilla from Tahiti, Tonga, and Madagascar.

I bought this from the Nugget Market in Davis, CA for $5.99 for a 22oz bottle. ABV of 8.5%

Peak XV is a dark porter, you can barely see through the thinner part of the glass if held up to the light. The smell has chocolate and vanilla with a slight coffee background. Taste has vanilla upfront with a chocolate and roasted finish and a slight lingering bitter/roast taste - although it doesn’t last too long. Generally crisp. Flavor is tame and enjoyable. The body is medium light, with decent carbonation.

An interesting beer - strong vanilla like flavors. It was enjoyable and I’d probably have it again during a different session. Since this is a limited release I would try it before it is out.

Reviews on Beer Advocate suggest that there was a bad batch and had some bad initial reviews because of it.

I would give this a Must Have It especially if you like dark beers and vanilla flavors. I would also go into this with the attitude that this will showcase a good vanilla flavor, if you're looking for just a a well-made porter you might not be prepared for the strong vanilla.