Goose Island prepares to launch six variations of Bourbon County Stout

In the United States, Goose Island Beer Co. is gearing up for the annual release of its highly anticipated Bourbon County Stout lineup, which will occur on November 28, 2025, known as Black Friday. This year, Goose Island is expanding its offerings to include not only the original Bourbon County Stout but also five unique variants. The company, credited with pioneering barrel-aging techniques in craft brewing, has seen this event grow into a significant moment for craft beer enthusiasts, as fans prepare to queue or enter lotteries for the chance to obtain limited allocations of these sought-after brews. The original stout is created to commemorate Goose Island's 1,000th brewing batch back in 1991 and has evolved significantly over the years. The beer undergoes an aging process lasting approximately 12 months, utilizing a fusion of freshly emptied barrels sourced from renowned distilleries such as Buffalo Trace, Heaven Hill, Four Roses, and Wild Turkey. This meticulous aging process ensures a rich and complex flavor profile characterized by deep notes of fudge, vanilla, cherry, and toasted almonds. Each limited-release variant is designed to enhance and elevate the tastes of the original brew while providing drinkers with varying flavor experiences. One of the standout variations for 2025 is the Bourbon County Brand Cherries Jubilee Stout, which is inspired by a flambéed dessert. This variant is aged in bourbon barrels and finished in cognac casks, then blended expertly with Montmorency cherries, citrus, and panela sugar, creating an elegant and dessert-like beer profile. The other variants in the lineup include the Bourbon County Brand Double Barrel Stout and the Proprietor's variant, which is a Chicago-exclusive release. Goose Island's expansion of its Bourbon County lineup demonstrates its commitment to innovation in the craft beer space and how collaborative aging techniques contribute to flavor development. As anticipation builds for the release, Goose Island emphasizes the importance of flexibility for drinkers who crave a more casual access to their beer compared to traditional high-ABV stouts. The introduction of a new 10-ounce bottle format allows consumers to enjoy the original stout in more manageable servings, catering to those looking to share and sample various brews with friends. The brewing team at Goose Island aims to further refine its offerings each year based on consumer feedback, showcasing their dedication to the craft beer community and the ever-evolving landscape of barrel-aged stouts. With a rich history and innovative spirit, the Bourbon County Stout lineup continues to stand as a benchmark in the industry, inviting both collectors and casual drinkers to experience its bold flavors and unique variants.