Brew York has announced the annual release of Empress Tonkoko, the flagship beer of the brewery’s renowned Tonkoko stout series.
Originally brewed in 2018 as part of a special Tryanuary event where fans were invited to the brewday, Empress Tonkoko has since established itself as a fan favourite. It has earned accolades such as best barrel-aged beer in the UK.
The luxurious imperial milk stout promises a dessert-like experience. It has been made with triple the levels of coconut, tonka, and vanilla, compared to the original Tonkoko. It offers a velvety mouthfeel, indulgent chocolate layers, and a warming, boozy finish.
“Brewing techniques and trends come and go, but Empress Tonkoko has become a highlight of the craft beer calendar,” said Lee Graham, co-founder and production director at Brew York.
“We’ve brewed it every year since 2018, constantly striving to make it better. This year, we believe we’ve created the best version yet — but we’ll let the drinkers decide!”
This year’s launch features two barrel-aged variants: Bourbon Barrel-Aged Empress Tonkoko and Bourbon Barrel-Aged Espresso Martini Empress Tonkoko.
Aged in Buffalo Trace, Heaven Hill, and Jim Beam barrels, the former introduces layers of rich oak, molasses, and caramelised sugars that complement the stout’s silky base. Aged in Heaven Hill barrels, the latter combines coffee, creamy vanilla, and the rich flavours of an espresso martini.
