It is called the beer that almost wasn’t. Velvet Merkin, Firestone Walker’s oatmeal stout aged in Heaven Hill & Four Roses barrels will hit bottles for the first time this September.

The only time you have ever really ever this oddly named brew was at beer festivals, or special events. Firestone Walker says it has gained a cult like following. Brewmaster Matt Brynildson says [fans] have been bugging him for bottles for a long time. Looks like he’s giving in to “beer” pressure. Interestingly, Velvet Merkin started as a simple component of an Anniversary Beer blend. Obviously Merkin shines quite well on its own. Fun fact: this release will be the lowest ABV beer in the Proprietor’s Reserve Series. You’ll know the non barrel aged base as Firestone Walker Velvet Merlin. Only after bourbon does this brew get the Merkin name.

Look for beer to release at a throw down at the Firestone Walker Barrelworks on September 14th. (Distribution release, 9/16)

Style: Imperial Oatmeal Stout (Barrel Aged, Bourbon)

Hops: Fuggle

Malts: 2-Row Pale, Roast Barley, English Dark Caramel, Medium Caramel, Carafa Malt, Oats (15%)

Availability: 22oz bombers, Boxed.

Distribution Area: CA, NV, OR, WA, AZ, CO, MO, Chicago, MA, NJ, NY, VA, PA, D.C., MD

8.5% ABV