THE ABYSS DESCHUTES BREWERY'S - 2006 & 2007 Reserve - A DEEP & MYSTERIOUS FLAVOR EXPERIENCE In 2005, Deschutes Brewery officially launched its Reserve Series with Mirror Mirror, a delicious oak-aged barley wine loosely based on a double batch of Mirror Pond Pale Ale. This year our brewers decided to experiment with an Imperial Stout, appropriately named The Abyss after its dark, deep and mysterious flavor experience. The Abyss has immeasurable depth inviting you to explore and discover its rich, complex profile. Hints of molasses, licorice and other alluring flavors draw you in further and further with each sip. And at 11% alcohol by volume, you will want to slowly savor each and every ounce. January 2008 marks the return of this rare and eclectic ale. Limited availability in wax-dipped 22-ounce bottles and on draft at a few select establishments. “The Abyss was one of those beers I didn’t want to end.  I was totally blown away - this is precious stuff.” Christian DeBenedetti, beer writer and Men’s Journal contributor Click here for a thorough review of The Abyss by James 'Dr. Fermento' Roberts! Alcohol By Volume: 11% IBU 65     RATINGS, AWARDS & NOTABLES Gold Medal, Imperial Stout 2007 Great American Beer Festival Best Beer Above 7%, International Champion Beer & Supreme Champion 2007 International Beer Challenge #1 Best Stouts & Porters 2007 Men's Journal October Issue Gold Medal, Strong Ales 2007 California Brewer's Festival Gold Medal, Stout Category 2007 San Diego County Fair Gold Medal, Imperial Stout Category 2007 North American Beer Awards Gold Medal, Strong Ale Category 2007 West Coast Brewers Festival Bronze Medal, Imperial Stout Category 2007 Australian International Beer Awards MODERN BREWERY AGE,  February 19, 2007 Five out of Five Stars This 11% a.b.v. imperial stout was aged in wood, and poured out roasty, woody and sweet. “Deschutes tends to do things well, and this is no exception,” said taster Gregg Glaser. “The wood does not take over, and there is a good balance.” “I like the fact that it is roasty and woody, but not burnt,” said taster Lachman. “There might be too much roastiness up front, but the rest is great, very creamy and smooth.” Tasters picked up a variety of rich flavors in this strong, complex stout. There’s a lot of chocolate in this,” Tom Conti said. “And I’d never know it was 11% a.b.v.” Taster Jack Kenney tasted graham cracker and brownies, and Mr. Glaser found molasses and licorice. One of the top beers of the evening.