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Steven Coulson
Steven has been drinking beers, wines and spirits for decades and has a propensity to go about them at length after a few drinks.
Latest Posts
- Does anyone else feel guilty drinking beer alone because it’s supposed to be a social experience?
- I’m new to drinking beer and I need some suggestions.
- Cleaning house and found a 10-15 year old bottle of barley wine from High Water Brewing, which I think no longer exists. What are the chances it’s drinkable, as in not holding my nose drinkable?
- I’m new to drinking beer and I need some suggestions.
- Tried Dragon’s Milk and loved it, any other dark/milk stout recommendations?
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Rediscovering Vintage Brews: A Journey with High Water Brewing’s Barley Wine
As I embarked on a spring cleaning mission, I stumbled upon a relic from the past—a bottle of barley wine from High Water Brewing that dates back 10 to 15 years. With High Water Brewing now a ghost of the past, I was intrigued and a bit apprehensive about the prospect of tasting this vintage brew. The pressing question lingered: was it still drinkable, or would I be forced to hold my nose while sipping?
The First Sip
To my pleasant surprise, I decided to give it a try. Upon pouring, I noted a musty aroma, a sign of its age, yet it still held a certain charm. The flavor profile was surprisingly intact; it didn’t bear the dreadful taste of wet cardboard that often plagues older beers. Instead, it offered a complex, roasted essence with subtle hints of chocolate, a testament to its rich barley wine heritage.
Despite being somewhat past its prime, it retained decent carbonation, though it was clear it had started to thin out over the years. With an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 11%, the warmth of the brew was quite noticeable but seamlessly blended into the overall experience.
Conclusion
While I wouldn’t consider myself an aficionado of barley wines, I can confidently say that this aged specimen was not only drinkable but enjoyable. It served as a delightful reminder of the past, showcasing the resilience of craft brewing even after many years. It’s moments like these that make exploring old finds both rewarding and exciting.
Have you ever unearthed an old bottle of beer? What was your experience like? Share your stories in the comments!