Bear Republic Prickly Pear Black Bear (8.1% ABV / 55 IBUs):  Take Big Bear Black Stout and age it in chardonnay barrels with prickly pear and you get a beer so different that I’m still stunned.  This out-of-the-box brew-thinking embraces Belgian brew philosophies.  Prickly Pear Black Bear pours a dark black color with barely detectable red hue and has an inviting tan foam.  The appearance is where this beer and Big Bear Black Stout separate.  Prickly Pear Black Bear has a sour grape aroma.  The beer is light bodied with mild carbonation.  Prickly Pear Black Bear has a sweet and tart fruity flavor that includes hints of grapefruit.  A subtle oak flavor is integrated and lingers with the sour finish.  This beer is very  different.  I enjoyed this brew but I’m still dazed.