For whiskey enthusiasts and stout lovers alike, Virginia Distillery has crafted something truly unique with the latest release in their Brewer’s Coalition series. Released just in time for Valentine’s Day 2025, the Virginia Distillery The Brewer’s Coalition Foothills Brewing Sexual Chocolate Imperial Stout Cask Finish American Single Malt Whiskey (whew!) is an ambitious collaboration that merges the worlds of craft whiskey and craft beer. For this limited edition, Virginia Distillery teams up with Foothills Brewing, based in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, known for their iconic Sexual Chocolate Imperial Stout, a rich, cocoa-infused brew. The result is an American single malt whiskey that begins its journey in ex-bourbon barrels from Brown-Forman, before finishing for five months in the rich, chocolatey stout casks.

This well-aged American single malt, finished in cocoa-infused imperial stout casks, is already a captivating prospect. But Virginia Distillery takes it a step further by partnering with Second Harvest Food Bank in North Carolina. This collaboration aims to support families affected by Hurricane Helene. For every bottle of Foothills Brewing Sexual Chocolate Stout Cask Finish sold, Virginia Distillery donates the equivalent of 10 meals to those in need. It’s hard to resist the allure of a whiskey that gives back to such an important cause, but what about the whiskey itself? Let’s dive in and find out!

Virginia Distillery x Foothills Sexual Chocolate Single Malt Tasting Notes

The stout cask immediately makes its presence known with a dense fudge aroma, complemented by lightly roasted coffee beans and warm caramel sauce. Warm bread crusts add a rustic tint, while a bit of orange zest provides contrast. The cocoa-infused stout cask is clear but never overpowering, allowing the original whiskey’s character to remain intact, creating a balanced profile.

The first sip brings the tartness of raspberries, promptly followed by toasted bread. The semi-bitterness of dark chocolate combines with the toast to balance out the sweet and tart berry note. Roasted hazelnuts gives further depth, adding a nutty complexity. The influence of the stout cask is undeniable, yet it doesn’t overpower the whiskey’s core character. The malt and cocoa elements complement each other beautifully. The mouthfeel is medium in viscosity, offering a satisfying texture that enhances the overall experience.

The finish unloads waves of burnt brown sugar sweetness followed by a softer milk chocolate. Just when you think it’s settled, an unexpected pine note surprises the palate, offering a playful twist that lifts the profile and adds intrigue to the finish. This combination creates a well-rounded and memorable conclusion that leaves you reaching for another sip.

This American single malt stands out as an excellent choice in its own right. It’s an easy recommendation based purely on its quality. However, the knowledge that each bottle purchased also supports those impacted by Hurricane Helene adds a layer of meaning and satisfaction to the experience, making it a purchase that feels as good as it tastes.

100 proof.

A- / $55 (700 ml) / vadistillery.com

The post Review: Virginia Distillery x Foothills Sexual Chocolate Single Malt appeared first on Drinkhacker: The Insider’s Guide to Good Drinking.