OK, i did this score sheet about a week ago...sorry for slacking on posting:
RIS 08/08/08
Bottle inspection: well filled, nice hiss upon opening
Aroma: Fruity, roasted aroma.
Appearance: Nice brown head, jet black, good lacing with a nice little foam all the way to the finish.
Flavor: Overly roasty, but somewhat smooth. leaves a bittery, roasty finish. nice chocolate complexity. the bitterness mellows as it warms, but still is very prominent.
Mouthfeel: Smooth, crisp and full. very nice.
Overall impression: The Roastiness is a bit much. i don't know if you changed this recipe, but i would either cut down on the roasted barley or check where you may have picked up some bitter astringency elsewhere. it seems to have a much more pronounced bitter roastiness than all the other RISs i have tried.
This could be improved, but I still really enjoyed it. can't go wrong with an RIS 08/08/08!
I enjoyed the barleywine you sent some time back. i don't have a review for it, but that was a great beer. thanks again.