Returning in galactic glory, the collaborative trio composed of Stone Executive Chairman, co-founder & self-proclaimed beer geek Greg Koch, Fark.com creator & craft beer-loving Drew Curtis, and web celeb & actor Wil Wheaton developed a recipe that pulls from each of their individual backgrounds and predilections. The specialty imperial stout draws its huge flavor from wheat (Wil’s contribution), pecans and bourbon barrels (two homages to Drew’s home of Kentucky) and Greg’s lifelong quest for pushing the limits of “Why the hell not?” to make bigger, bolder beers. The result is a beer bursting with a plethora of aromatics and flavors: cocoa, coffee, licorice, oak, nuts, vanilla and, of course, bourbon. It’s perfect for a warm summer evening, a cozy winter’s night or the approaching destruction of the entire human race (be it externally or internally inflicted).
 
The bottle art for the 2017 edition was entrusted to heralded comic book writer and artist Walt Simonson, best known for his work on Marvel Comics’ Thor. Simonson also lends his talents to other comics such as Star Wars, Battlestar Galactica, and if the front of the bottle doesn’t already give it away, Alien.
 
At 13 percent alcohol by volume, the unearthly imperial stout may be enjoyed fresh, or cellared for months or years for rich flavors to mature and develop even more prevalent dark cocoa, coffee and nut flavors. We recommend storing bottles in a cool, dark cellar. Or deep, dark space.
 
“Five years of this proverbial tradition means our fans can now enjoy a five-year vertical,” said Greg Koch, Stone Brewing executive chairman & co-founder. “I think I can speak for all three of us when I say that Drew, Wil and I can’t wait for this momentous w00tstout occasion. We’re more than excited to revisit the past five years of two nerds and a passionate beer geek collaborating on one really good beer.” 

Web:   StoneBrewing.com/ wootstout
Stats: 13% ABV, 65 IBUs
Availability: Limited release in 22-ounce bottles and draft
Featured Hops: English Target