Revisiting a Vintage Bottling: A Journey with High Water Brewing’s Barley Wine

Recently, while decluttering my home, I stumbled across a fascinating relic from the past—a bottle of barley wine from High Water Brewing, aged between 10 to 15 years. Given that this brewery has since closed its doors, I found myself pondering the fate of this vintage brew. Could it still be enjoyable, or would it be a nostril-holding experience?

A Tasting Adventure

Encouraged by curiosity, I decided to give it a try. To my surprise, the experience was quite pleasant! Although the aroma carried a hint of mustiness, the flavor profile was surprisingly intact. The carbonation, while slightly diminished, remained sufficient to provide a satisfying mouthfeel.

As a casual barley wine enthusiast—I wouldn’t consider myself an aficionado—I can’t speak to its adherence to traditional style parameters. However, I can confidently say that it was far from tasting like wet cardboard—a common fear when it comes to aging beer!

Instead, the brew revealed a delightful medley of roasty notes complemented by a subtle chocolate undertone. The alcohol presence was notable, with an ABV of 11%, but it didn’t overwhelm the palate. Overall, it was remarkably drinkable, much to my satisfaction.

Community Insight

I want to extend my gratitude to everyone who offered their thoughts and advice prior to my tasting. Your insights made this experience even more enjoyable, reminding me that sometimes, treasuring the past—like this bottle of barley wine—can lead to delightful surprises.

So, if you ever find an old bottle lurking in your basement or attic, don’t hesitate to pop it open—you might just uncover a hidden gem!