Boulevard Recalling Imperial Stout Bottles From Thrillogy Pack For Off-Flavors

In September of this year we released our Barrel-Aged Thrillogy sample pack featuring one 750 mL bottle each of Boulevard’s Bourbon Barrel Quad, Rye-on-Rye and Imperial Stout. Following a recent staff tasting, we’ve determined that 750 mL bottles of 2016 Imperial Stout are exhibiting off-flavors indicative of the presence of lactobacillus, a lactic acid-producing bacteria. While lactobacillus is not harmful, it can produce off-flavors and aromas not intended by our brewers, most notably a distinct tartness.

Before the beer was released, we found no evidence of any issue in the microbiological testing or sensory evaluations performed by our Quality Assurance team, as the acidity had not yet become pronounced enough to be detected. Over the intervening weeks, however, in bottles stored both warm and cold, sufficient lactic acid has been produced to become noticeable.

We are currently conducting extensive research to pinpoint the precise source of the problem, and taking immediate steps to try to ensure that it does not happen again. We can state with confidence that no other Boulevard beers in the marketplace, including 12-ounce bottles of 2016 Imperial Stout, have been compromised.

To those who purchased the 2016 Barrel-Aged Thrillogy package, please know that neither Bourbon Barrel Quad nor Rye-on-Rye bottles are affected. We apologize for this problem, and are offering a refund to any consumer who purchased the Barrel-Aged Thrillogy sample pack in the amount of one-third of the total retail price paid. To receive a refund, send us the name of the store where you purchased the package, the total purchase price, your name and mailing address, and a scan or photo of the back label from your 750 mL bottle of 2016 Imperial Stout. If you purchased more than one Barrel-Aged Thrillogy sample pack, please include a scan or photo of all Imperial Stout bottles together.

You can email this information to [email protected], or send it by regular mail to “Imperial Stout Refund, Boulevard Brewing Company, 2501 Southwest Boulevard, Kansas City, MO 64108.” You can expect a check within 2-4 weeks of your submission.

Again, please note that no other Boulevard beers are affected, including 12-ounce bottles of 2016 Imperial Stout.

We strive every day to make superior beers, and are disappointed that this batch of Imperial Stout did not live up to our expectations, or to yours. We promise to learn from this situation, and to redouble our efforts to make only the finest ales and lagers that you’ve come to expect from Boulevard Brewing Company.

If you have any questions about this release, or any other Boulevard offering, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.