2018 Barley Wine

◎ Appearance

Deep amber to chestnut brown, displaying excellent clarity with a lustrous sheen. A dense, tan head forms readily and maintains firm adhesion to the glass throughout service, demonstrating classic barleywine structure. The body is viscous and full, with slow carbonation apparent only as faint streams.

◌ Aroma

The nose evolves with time, opening with prominent notes of aged wood and oxidative character typical of extended maturation. Dried dark fruits—raisins, figs, and prunes—emerge alongside subtle sherry notes and warming alcohol vapors. Underlying malz richness grounds the profile, hinting at caramel and toffee without asserting hop presence.

◐ Taste

Entry is smooth and sweet, with the malt structure immediately evident. Mid-palate develops layers of caramel, dark fruit, and resinous warmth from the 14% ABV, which integrates well rather than harshly burning. Bitterness remains restrained at 30 IBU, allowing malt sweetness to dominate without cloying; the finish dries slightly as warming alcohol becomes the focal point.

◑ Finish

Long, warming finish with lingering malt sweetness and alcohol heat. Dry-down is smooth, leaving a soft coating and a subtle raisin-toffee aftertaste that persists for several minutes.