Barley Wine

94 Old Bawdy Barley Wine, 2007 Bottling, Pike Brewing Co. (WA). 10% ABV (1/10)
Rich copper color. Rich aromas of melted chocolate toffee, dried fruit chutney and blackstrap molasses follow thorough on a smooth, satiny entry to a fruity-yet-dry medium-full body with roasted nut, herb salt and tangy grilled citrus notes. Finishes with a tart, chewy malt and pine citrusy hop fade. Well done.

91 Monster Ale Barleywine, The Brooklyn Brewery (NY). 10.1% ABV (1/10)
Deep amber color. Rich aromas of toasted bread and mild toffee follow through on a round, chewy entry to a dryish, medium-full body with a deft touch of citrusy hops on the long, generous finish. Seamless and beautifully integrated flavors make this a total pleasure to drink.

90 Mirror Mirror Barleywine, Deschutes Brewery (OR). 11% ABV (1/10)
Rich copper color with a fine blanket of bone-white foam. Rich aromas of brown sugar, chocolate-covered figs, and caramelized nuts and grains follow through on a supple, velvety entry to a dry-yet-fruity medium-full body with delicious layers of flavor. Finishes with a long, generous and peppery, tangy citrusy hop-accented fade. Very big and tasty.

89 XVI Anniversary Barley Wine, Uinta Brewing Co. (UT). 10.4% ABV (1/10)
Deep copper brown color with a fine blanket of mousse. Bright, citrusy and piney hop and praline aromas follow through on a round, supple entry to a dry-yet-fruity medium-to-full body with bitter baker’s chocolate and lemon marmalade on spicy dark rye toast notes. Finishes with a tart, tangy and drying citrusy hops driven finish. A nice choice for hopheads.

86 Old Bawdy Barley Wine, 2008 Bottling, Pike Brewing Co. (WA). 10% ABV (1/10)
Deep slightly hazy copper color. Mild aromas of dark bread crust, dried fruits and brown sugar follow thorough on a round entry to dry-yet-fruity medium-to-full body with cocoa and lemon pepper notes. Finishes with an astringent piney hop fade. Could use a little more malt balance.