Colonial Brewing Co Inquest 2022

CBCo Margaret River

Published July 19, 2022

Colonial’s annual double digit ABV, midwinter explorations could retrospectively be seen as a sort of globally-inspired dark beer passport, charting both the imperial strength and empire-like reach of the substantial stout. What began with a straight-ahead English style imperial stout has morphed in subsequent years, turning up as both Belgian and heavily Centennial hop-imbued American versions over time.

Inquest 2022's entry looks to the north of the beer's origins, turning up as the Scottish edition. As with previous iterations, there’s a complex malt bill – nine feature here, including peated malt in a hat tip to Islay whisky. This delivers a signature earthy smoke on the nose, which continues through the silky palate arc – one that’s lighter than the brooding glass suggests.

Bitterness remains moderate amongst liquorice, molasses and pan-chocolate notes, and there’s a touch of Wee Heavy-like sweetness to complete the characterisation. All of which is begging for a bleak forecast, an open fire and a whisky boilermaker pairing.

Guy Southern

Style
Peated Imperial Stout
ABV
10.5%
Stockists

Available in limited release from Colonial’s Margaret River and Port Melbourne breweries

And stockists nationally

Name
CBCo Margaret River
Address

Osmington Road
Bramley
Margaret River

Phone
(08) 9758 8177
Open Hours

Wed & Thurs: midday to 5.30pm
Friday: midday to 8pm
Sat & Sun: 11am to 5.30pm