Founders KBS Espresso
Founders KBS Espresso is the first-ever variant of the legendary Kentucky Breakfast Stout — a 12% ABV bourbon barrel-aged imperial stout from Founders Brewing in Grand Rapids, Michigan, taken further with espresso. KBS is already brewed with coffee and chocolate; for the Espresso variant, Founders ages the barrel-aged stout on espresso beans after it leaves the bourbon barrels, for a fresh, snappy coffee twist on the classic. Order online from Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.
- ABV: 12%
- Size: 12oz
- Style: Bourbon barrel-aged imperial stout with coffee and chocolate, aged on espresso beans
- Origin: Founders Brewing, Grand Rapids, Michigan
- Release: The first bottled KBS variant (debuted February 2020)
The Cult Stout, Doubled Down on Coffee
KBS earned cult status as a bourbon barrel-aged chocolate-coffee stout — rich malt, vanilla, burnt sugar, oak. KBS Espresso takes that foundation and pushes the coffee to the front: after the bourbon barrels, the stout rests on espresso beans, layering fresh-roasted coffee intensity over the barrel character without losing the chocolate depth. A craft beer landmark from Founders, limited and sought after — this is the one coffee-obsessed stout drinkers plan releases around.
Tasting Notes
Aroma of fresh espresso, mild bourbon and dark roasted malt. The palate opens on semi-sweet dark chocolate, layering into bold espresso, roasted coffee, vanilla and spicy oak. The finish lingers on dark chocolate, black-coffee bitterness and a warm bourbon fade.
How to Enjoy
Serve cool, not cold — cellar temperature lets the barrel and espresso character open. Pour into a snifter; sip slowly and let it warm in the glass. A dessert beer in its own right.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Founders KBS Espresso?
The first KBS variant: the classic bourbon barrel-aged imperial stout, conditioned on espresso beans after barrel aging for an extra coffee kick.
What is the ABV of KBS Espresso?
12% ABV.
Does KBS Espresso contain coffee?
Yes — twice over: the base KBS is brewed with coffee and chocolate, then the Espresso variant is aged on espresso beans.
Where can I buy Founders KBS Espresso online?
Available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor — it ships from San Diego, CA.
Coffee, chocolate, bourbon barrels — buy Founders KBS Espresso at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.