Bourbon Barrel Barleywine

2012 Vintage Pours an amber brown color with a thin khaki colored head. The head disappears almost immediately, leaving a thin swirl of foam clinging to the edges of the glass. A small amount of spotty lacing. The aroma is rich and intoxicating. Sweet toffee malts and dark fruits blend with a light vanilla and bourbon. The taste is very similar to the aroma. Sweet toffee malts blend into a soft vanilla with a hint of bourbon. A sweet dark fruit, possible raisin or prune brings in the finish. Some warmth on the finish from the higher abv. Medium body with light carbonation. Dry on the palate with a syrupy sweetness. An amazing beer with sweet, complex, enjoyable flavors. If you like this style beer, this one is going to be hard to beat! A great winter beer that I look forward to having again! Try one!

From a 2009 bottle. Pours clear with a half inch of tan foam. Retention was fleeting while lacing didn't exist. Aroma has bourbon notes that are complimented by toffee malt. Vanilla brings up the rear but fortifies nicely. Dark fruits meander in late. Taste is a dose of the same. Toffee sweetness begins and gives way to vanilla and bourbon and finishing with flavors of dark fruit and molasses. Medium but almost light body with barely any carbonation. Dries the palate but leaves a touch of sticky sweetness on the lips. This is quite tasty. Central Waters continues to impress. Even though touches of alcohol are present, this is an easy drinker. Enjoy!