In 2002 we began our groundbreaking, millennium-inspired series with Stone 02.02.02 Vertical Epic Ale. This bumped up Belgian-style wit—made all the more alluring thanks to an infusion of orange peel, coriander, a sprinkling of black pepper and a healthy dose of Centennial hops—was a bright way to begin this epic eleven-part vertical tasting.

We celebrated our first five years in business by releasing anniversary India pale ales, with each subsequent IPA brewed to be hoppier and more intense than the previous. For our 6th anniversary in 2002, we extended this concept by making an intensified version of Stone Smoked Porter. We cranked up the malts and hops a notch or three and conditioned it on French and American oak, which accentuated our porter’s distinctive smokiness and amplified its chocolate and roast coffee flavors while also adding subtle notes of toffee, cherries, dried berries and vanilla. We’re proud to give those who missed out—as well as those who didn’t—a fresh shot at experiencing this smoky, dark-as-night wonder.

On brewday, we added raw, Texas wildflower honey from Good Flow Honey Co. in Austin, Texas late in the boil. After the first several weeks of fermentation, we added more honey to the beer. Finally, the beer was 100% naturally refermented in bottles, kegs, and casks using more of the raw, Texas wildflower honey. In addition to the honey, Bière de Miel was brewed with Hill Country well water, malted barley, malted wheat, and hops. It is 5.8% alcohol by volume, 3.2 pH, has a finishing gravity of 1.003, and is suitable for vegetarians but not vegans.

Mid-season release: one hell of a Butterscotch Imperial Stout. Say goodbye to cold winter days, say hello to sweet days of spring!