Alaskan Barley Wine Ale

A: A clear and dark colored copper. Foam head is soft, small bubbles, of a light beige color that didn't last long at all. S: Nice aroma of toffee and brown sugar. Pickup a little grain alcohol in the back. T: Any flavors are tough to sort out through the sharpness of the hot boozey taste. O: Bottle is from 2007, so I don't know what happened in the six years this has been in a bottle but I don't think it's fair to grant an opinion.

Brewed in 09, it's 12 and the first thing that comes to mind is HOT. This beer is alcohol forward, blanketing out the flavor of the beer. It isn't bad per se, it just that the flavors are hidden behind that alcohol burn. There is a hint of sweet maltyness, a subtle.. caramelized flavor- maybe the part I like most about it. I have to say, that caramel element hints at a good beer, but the alcohol just burns it away.

From a 2009 bottle. Pours clear with minimal tan foam that is fleeting. Very spotty lacing. Aroma is vintage malt scents. Dark fruits and cherry really bring a nice bouquet. Caramel and toffee bring lighter notes. Hop residue is on the background. Slight hints of alcohol. Taste is smooth up front before the alcohol brings the heat in the finish, including through the nose. Caramel, toffee, and dark fruits. Toffee builds to the finish until the alcohol puts a strangle hold on the buds. Medium body with minimal to no carbonation. Only slightly dry. Has the makings of a solid beer but the alcohol really beats this one up, including the senses. 3+ years on the bottle still didn't settle it out. Enjoy!