The Rusty Nail from Fremont Brewing in Seattle is brewed with cinnamon and licorice root before aging for about a year in Heaven Hill bourbon barrels. The base beer is dense and full-bodied, allowing the spices and barrel character to integrate naturally during the long maturation.
The aroma features dark chocolate, roasted coffee, molasses and cinnamon, with subtle notes of bourbon vanilla and oak. The flavor is intense and layered: it starts with sweetness reminiscent of dark chocolate and caramelized sugar, then opens into warm cinnamon spice and a gentle licorice depth.
The finish is long, slightly boozy and rounded by the bourbon influence. The texture is very thick and oily, with low carbonation that emphasizes the beer’s dessert-like character.
Produced once a year and in limited quantities, The Rusty Nail is considered one of Fremont’s most distinctive barrel-aged stouts.
Producer
Fremont Brewing from Seattle was founded in 2009 as a family-owned brewery by Matt Lincecum and Sara Nelson, with the motto “Beer Matters”. From humble beginnings, the brewery has grown into the third-largest craft brewery in Washington State and is especially recognized as the region’s leading producer of barrel-aged beers.
Their main taproom has become a beloved community gathering place, while the Fremont West production facility in Ballard serves as a hub for innovation and large-scale brewing. Beers such as Universale Pale Ale and Interurban IPA quickly gained popularity, while seasonal and experimental releases from the Black Heron Project showcase their commitment to exploring new styles.
Beyond quality, Fremont stands out for its continuous support of the community, investment in local resources, and engagement with consumers through events and special releases. Their approach blends technical precision, innovation, and a strong sense of local identity.
Today, Fremont Brewing is a symbol of Seattle’s craft beer movement and a prime example of a brewery that continues to grow while remaining true to its philosophy of sustainability and community.
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