It is widely agreed upon that the 1906 T206 Honus Wagner card is the world’s most valuable baseball card.  A near mint condition example of this card recently sold for $2.8 million.  What makes this piece of paper worth so much money?  Is it Wagner’s fashion sense?  Doubtful.  Is it is haircut and immaculate part?  Possibly.  Is the fact that only 60 of these cards were made?  Most definitely. 


Wagner is credited with inventing the center part

It is a fact that things that are rare are valuable.  Blue diamonds, rare coins, and girls who like football are all held in very high esteem.  Such is the case with Dogfish Head’s World Wide Stout.  Only brewed once a year, this 18% ABV brew is considered an Imperial Stout but could easily be classified as rocket fuel. 

Appearance
Beer slugs out and is darker than the darkest roast coffee.  A single finger of large bubbled head is light brown.  Retention is low as is lacing.

Aroma
Extremely aromatic.  Nothing small about this beer.  Dark chocolate, molasses, and coffee speak to the dark malts used.  Dark fruit in the form of plum and raisins adds to the complexity.  As expected a strong punch of alcohol clears the nose and probably kills a few brain cells.

Taste
The first sip is sweet as it passes the tip of the tongue.  Flavors of prune and grape are reminiscent of port wine.  Roasted malt notes comes through in form of dark chocolate, molasses, and burnt toast but are more subdued than expected.  Alcohol is there, of course, but adds a layer of complexity as opposed to overpowering the drink.

Mouthfeel
Massive full body with low carbonation.  Thick and chewable.  Finish is on the dry side with a slight alcohol warmth.

Drinkability
Enjoy World Wide Stout as you would a glass a port: a great night cap after a big meal.  Big flavors and huge ABV beg to be shared.  A full 12 ounces of this brew might be a little much for the novice or even experienced drinker.  Be prepared to scour your local beer shop as this limited brwe is traditionally released in December.  Overall grade for Dogfish Head World Wide Stout: B+


Dogfish Head World Wide Stout

Up next on Tuesday Tasting: Iron Springs Pub & Brewery JC Flyer IPA