Aroma: The nose is absolutely of plum and chocolate. A bit of phenol. Also caramel, malt and raisin.

Look (Appearance): Dark mahogany with light tan head. Good lacing. Moderate head retention

Taste: Warm alcohol finish on the swallow. Tastes of dark bread and dark fruits, including plums and figs. Balance and complexity are quite nice. Hints of coffee, dark chocolate, burnt toast in the finish and aftertaste.

Mouthfeel: Medium to full mouth feel with a creamy feel and average carbonation. Some alcohol warmth.

Second Look (Overall Impression): Saw this at Bruisin' Ales in Asheville, NC and decided to give it a try. Had not heard of this series from Sierra Nevada, but I am not one to pass on a good Quad. I have to say that this was quite a good beer. Very impressed by the complexity and balance of this beer. Although there is a bit of alcohol warmth, it is not overpowering and I think actually enhances the overall experience with this beer. Even with that, this beer was very smooth and easy to drink. It is a sipping beer for sure. I look forward to finding and trying the others in this series.