So, I just completed tasting both of these beers yet again.  And I have absolutely no clue which one to vote for.  At all.

I’m going to quote my previous reviews for the Brown Dog and the Yeti below, because I’m not sure I can sum these two beers up any better than I did previously:

“To me, the Smuttynose Old Brown Dog is: unique; compelling; dark; hoppy, yet sweet.”

“On the other side of the field, the Great Divide Yeti Imperial Stout: dark and roasted; packed full of flavor; deep, creamy, and delicious; slow-sipping; oddly reminiscent of my youth (like when I would stay up too late as a kid and eat a bunch of candy).”

Both of these beers have an absolutely amazing “wow” factor and memorability.  While I was pouring each, I knew exactly what to expect in both the aroma and taste, and I wasn’t proven wrong in the slightest.  Of course, I was hoping I would be given some bit of insight to help make this decision somewhat easier, but sadly there was no luck in that department. These beers are just as I remember them – well deserving of their place in the Final 4.

To help make this decision, I reverted to other “categories” I have commented in the past.  I’ve already mentioned that taste and memorability are well matched, and I feel that I’ll have to toss ‘stylistic definition’ into that group as well.  But what about overall versatility?  Or repeat drinkability?  To me, that’s what this match ultimately comes down to today, and you’ll see my decision here later today.