6 Months In A Leaky Oak

◎ Appearance

A luminous golden ale with a distinctive blush-red hue imparted by extended contact with Nero d'Avola grape skins. The body holds a fine, delicate head with good retention and even lacing on the glass. Clarity is excellent, allowing light to pass through with inviting brilliance.

◌ Aroma

The nose opens with pronounced vinous and nutty characteristics, echoing its Cognac barrel conditioning and grape-forward fermentation. Red fruit aromatics—plum and dark berries—meld with subtle stone fruit notes and a whisper of wild fermentation funk. Underlying estery yeast complexity adds gentle spice and a suggestion of fermented warmth.

◐ Taste

Entry is fruit-forward and lightly sweet, with apricot and stone fruit leading across the mid-palate. The base beer's cake-like maltiness provides body and roundness, while oak tannins become increasingly evident, layering with a subtle wild character. Mounting tartness and dry fruit tannins drive toward a crisp, drying finish with impressive complexity for the proof.

◑ Finish

The finish is dry and persistent, with lingering tannin structure and a tart wine-like quality that echoes the grape work. A subtle funky note and gentle spice fade cleanly, leaving the palate refreshed rather than cloying.