It’s no secret that the people of Bend, Oregon are spoiled for choice when it comes to breweries. Deschutes, GoodLife, The Ale Apothecary — the praise-worthy list goes on and on. 

Honestly, I think those Bendians (Bendites? Bendigans?) might even have it a little TOO good. Especially since they live in the hometown of Crux Fermentation Project! 

Eater Portland recognizes Crux as the #6 Most Killer Brewery in Bend. So it should come as no surprise that their Tough Love [BANISHED] Russian Imperial Stout is also a seriously killer brew. 

In fact, it’s ranked in the Top 50 Beers in Oregon State on BeerAdvocate!

With Tough Love, Crux takes the RIS style to new heights, courtesy of rye and oak-smoked wheat. And they don’t stop at the grain — they brewed today’s 2019 Vintage with additions of blackstrap molasses, brewer’s licorice, cherry bark, and vanilla bean. 

Then they banish it away in Kentucky Bourbon Barrels for a year! 

During this isolation, the brew’s spicy and roasty character matures. Meanwhile, vanilla and dried cherry notes develop alongside tobacco and woody leather. The mouthfeel becomes pleasantly thick and creamy, and coats the tongue with its intricate flavors.

But you can’t find this super limited-release Stout ANYWHERE outside the Pacific Northwest. So it was with Robin Hood-like valor — minus any actual theft, of course — that I went and wrangled a stash away from those beer-rich Benders (Benditos? BendyHannas?). 

Now, it’s your turn to get spoiled; grab a bottle while you still can and be among the first non-Bendies (Bendoids? Bend Hurs?) to taste this 4.29 UT-rated rich pour!

Rated 4.29 on Untappd; 94/100 on BeerAdvocate; 92/100 on Craft Beer & Brewing

Tavour strictly supports independent beer. Crux Fermentation Project is certified independent by the Brewers Association