Old Irving "Barrel-Aged As Time Goes by (2021)" Bourbon Barrel-Aged Belgian Quad

Name: Barrel-Aged As Time Goes By (2021)
Brewer: Old Irving Brewing Co. (United States)
Style: Specialty Wood-Aged Beer (Base Style: Belgian Dark Strong Ale)
ABV: 10%
Review Year: 2022

Introducing the 2021 vintage of Barrel-Aged As Time Goes By by Old Irving Brewing Co., a captivating barrel-aged “Belgian Quad.” This brew has undergone an 11-month aging process in J. Henry & Sons bourbon barrels, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship of the Chicago-based brewery.

Backlog review from January 2022.

STYLE GUIDELINES

This beer is being evaluated as a Specialty Wood-Aged Beer (33B) with the Belgian Strong Dark Ale (26D) as the base style in the context of the 2021 Beer Style Guidelines of the Beer Judge Certification Program (BJCP). The most current version can be found on the BJCP website.

TASTING NOTES

Aroma
Barrel Aged As Time Goes presents a moderately high aroma profile of dried fruits, with notes of wild cherry, prune, and raisins. There is a subtle presence of alcohol and oak, along with a touch of caramel and dark chocolate.

Appearance
This beer pours with a clear ruby-brown color; no head.

Flavor
The flavor profile of this beer is rich and complex, mirroring the dark fruits found in the aroma. There is a boozy whisky presence with a subtle hint of wood. Complementing the dark fruits, there are nuances of chocolate and caramel, along with toffee, and dark chocolate. The beer exhibits a medium-high level of bitterness and residual sweetness. The aftertaste lingers slightly, offering notes of cola, spice, and cacao nibs.

Mouthfeel
The body is medium-full, providing a satisfying mouthfeel; medium-low carbonation.

THE VERDICT

Barrel Aged As Time Goes By (2021) is a phenomenal representation of a Bourbon barrel-aged Belgian Dark Strong Ale, specifically a Quadrupel. It masterfully achieves a delicate balance between complexity and harmony, allowing the beer to shine in its entirety. This remarkable brew seamlessly blends the timeless characteristics of the classic base style (e.g., malt richness and dark fruit flavors) with the captivating influences imparted by the barrel aging process (e.g., whisky and wood).

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