Session 12: Weyerbacher Blithering Idiot

I'd spoken about this session with a friend, who said something like "barleywines? Yeah, I can only drink about one per year." Which sort of sums up my feelings (though I believe I've actually already drank one this winter). As much as I love big, thick, and strong beers, barleywines always are a little more aggressive than I want for most drinking situations. I've probably never drank one while out at a bar - they're for sipping at home, in the evening, in cold weather.

That's my stereotype, anyway. My other problem with barleywines is specifically with American-style barleywines (and this should be predictable to anyone who's read this blog before): too hoppy. A barleywine, for me, should be sweet, with any heat or spiciness coming from alcohol. Bitter, citrusy American barleywines drink like a punishment rather than the contemplative evening drink I expect.

But the review: Weyerbacher generally does all right by me, favoring bigger styles, and almost never failing outright - I've had beers from them which I probably wouldn't have again, but nothing truly bad. And they don't tend to overhop, in my experience. Still, not knowing before purchasing if this was English- or American-style gave me pause.

It poured an attractive dark amber. Some woodsy hop aroma, a little resinous; sweet around the edges. Taste started sweet, turned spicy and hot as the carbonation kicked in, then a little hop bitter (not too aggressively), ending with a sweet aftertaste. This progression really struck me - not something you get that often. Flavors are dark sugars, molasses, some fruit, a solid malt undercurrent. A little boozy toward the end, but not too much.

Really great balance - beats an overhopped American barleywine any day. And not excessively sweet like some English-styles are, either. Most of the BeerAdvocates complain about too much alcohol presence, which is sort of understandable - you can tell it's strong, sure - but what do you expect? Aging probably would mellow that a bit, but I wouldn't say it's necessary.

As my one barleywine of the year, a fine choice.