Disappointment in a Bottle: My Experience with Goose Island’s Bourbon County Stout

As an avid beer enthusiast with a passion for discovering unique brews, I recently found myself reflecting on a less-than-satisfactory experience I had with Goose Island’s Bourbon County Stout from 2015.

Last year, I purchased an entire case, excited at the prospect of letting it age in my beer closet to enhance its flavor potential. Fast forward to just a week ago, when I decided the time had come to indulge in one of these coveted bottles. To my dismay, the taste was far from enjoyable. Upon doing a quick search, I stumbled upon information about a major recall concerning specific bottling dates—my unfortunate luck had secured a case of what many considered subpar.

Eager to address this issue, I reached out to Goose Island via email, hoping for some acknowledgment of the situation. However, I was met with a rather unhelpful response stating that, due to missing the redemption deadline, I was out of luck. I never anticipated a refund; rather, I was hoping for a gesture of goodwill—perhaps a sticker or a promotional shirt—anything to show that they recognize the situation and value their customers.

Now, I find myself stuck with a case of stout that I can’t bear to drink and a waiver on my $150 investment. It’s disheartening to see a brand I once respected respond in such an aloof manner.

To salvage this moment, I’m currently enjoying a Founders Breakfast Stout instead—thankfully, it tastes as exceptional as I hoped. As I wrap up this post, I urge fellow beer lovers to be cautious with Goose Island products moving forward, and remember that sometimes, the experience surrounding a product can be just as important as the brew itself.

Here’s to better brews ahead!