Cherry Liqueur Barrel-Aged Mills & Hills

◎ Appearance

Pours jet black with minimal light transmission, presenting a dense, opaque body characteristic of the style. A tan head of moderate thickness settles quickly, leaving delicate lacing that fades gradually down the glass. Carbonation is restrained, allowing the heavy body to dominate.

◌ Aroma

The nose opens with pronounced dark chocolate and cocoa notes, warming into a rich, roasted malted grain foundation. Sharp tart cherry from the barrel-aging treatment cuts through the heaviness, accompanied by a subtle vinous oak edge that suggests time spent in wood. The interplay between fruit and chocolate creates an inviting, layered complexity.

◐ Taste

Entry is full-bodied and velvety, with bittersweet chocolate and dark cocoa dominating the palate. Mid-palate brings bright acidity from the cherry liqueur barrel treatment, creating a tart counterpoint to the sweet malt backbone. Bitterness registers at a moderate level, providing structure without overwhelming the fruit and chocolate interplay that defines this beer.

◑ Finish

The finish is lengthy and warming, with lingering notes of dark chocolate and a subtle tannic dryness from barrel contact. Cherry brightness fades gradually, leaving a pleasant bitter-sweet residue on the palate that invites another sip.