Solera

◎ Appearance

Deep garnet-black in the glass with an opaque body and minimal light transmission. A thick, tan head forms and clings to the rim with persistent lacing. Carbonation is restrained, appropriate for the beer's weight and age.

◌ Aroma

The nose opens with dark dried fruit—raisin and fig—layered atop rich roasted malt. Underneath lies a warming presence of brandy and oak from the sherry cask maturation, with subtle white pepper and vanilla notes emerging on the periphery. The alcohol carries softly without harshness.

◐ Taste

Smooth, full-bodied entry reveals dark chocolate and espresso backbone, with raisin sweetness and candied fig playing through the mid-palate. The sherry influence adds vinous depth and subtle tannin texture. Moderate bitterness at 65 IBU settles cleanly without overwhelming the malt complexity. The elevated alcohol provides warmth but remains well-integrated.

◑ Finish

The finish extends with a gentle fade, lingering notes of oak, cocoa powder, and dried stone fruit holding through the aftertaste. No harshness or astringency mars the close.