Chophouse Bourbon Barrel Barleywine

Aroma: 10 | Appearance: 10 | Mouthfeel: 10 | Flavor: 10 | Overall: 10

3rd Annual Cleveland Winter Warmer Festival - My mind was blown and senses rocked by this high gravity offering, multiple samples found their way into my glass. Unlike any other barleywine I can recall, extremely thick and malty with an unmatched creamy smoothness. Yes it's bourbon aged, but the flavors from the barrel are so subtle I wouldn't have guessed it had it not been in the name. Perfect pour releasing a mottled amber~brown body with a constant, medium sized khaki colored head, and ample lacing for a big beer. Powerful, abundant aroma of warm oats, bran flakes, and figs. Port wine quality with a trace of soft whiskey. As per my opening remarks this is a full bodied beer with a rich creaminess and soft aftertaste allowing it to be easily enjoyed. It's delectable on the palate. A jumble of fermented dark fruits mixed in with hearty wheat bread and sweet malts. Heavy raisin presence as well as chocolate and vanilla. A hint of smoke in the aftertaste with an oh so gentle backdrop of bourbon. An eye opening experience from the initial burst of aroma to the final sip. An absolutely ideal brew.