No 9 Barley Wine

◎ Appearance

Deep amber to light copper in the glass, with excellent clarity and a fine, persistent head that clings to the sides with firm lacing. The carbonation is moderate, appropriate for a barleywine of this character and age.

◌ Aroma

The nose opens with warm stone fruit—dried apricot and plum—layered beneath a distinct marzipan sweetness and gentle confectionery notes. English Goldings hops contribute a subtle herbal and spicy character, while a faint Cognac-like warmth emerges as the beer opens, hinting at the three-month maturation and alcohol content.

◐ Taste

Entry is full-bodied and rich, with caramel malt sweetness and dark fruit compote flavors developing across the palate. The substantial hop bitterness from English Goldings provides a counterpoint without overwhelming; mid-palate shows layered complexity of herbal spice, light oak-like dryness, and a boozy warmth that builds steadily toward the swallow.

◑ Finish

The finish is long and warming, with lingering herbal hop notes and a gentle sweetness held in check by residual bitterness. A pleasant alcoholic warmth persists without harshness, inviting further contemplation of this complex, mature barleywine.