The Boutique Brew Favorite – Barley Wine
Barley Wine is one of the most popular boutique beers favored by craft brewery aficionados. This full-bodied winter favorite is known for its richness, intense malt flavors, and surprisingly smooth finish that is perfect for a cozy winter evening.
Brewed with a high concentration of malted barley, Barley Wine has a distinctively high alcoholic content that can range from 8.0%-14.0% ABV. Though it looks similar to beer, the heavy flavor profile is more akin to a fortified wine, hence the name.
Rich Malty Flavors
The high malt content gives Barley Wine a full-bodied and complex flavor. Caramel and toffee notes, as well as floral aromas, are the signature elements. While it is high in alcohol content, Barley Wine has surprisingly smooth taste.
Adventurous Toasted Aromas
Exploring more complex flavor profiles in Barley Wine can be a rewarding experience. The combination of hops and toasted malt emphasise flavors of dried fruit, nuts, and citrusy aromas. Extra herbal hoppy characters can even be detected in some varieties.
Serving and Food Pairing
Barley Wine is commonly served in snifter glasses, which increases its flavour and aroma. The strong flavours of Barley Wine pair well with beef, roast turkey, and game dishes. It can also stand up to desserts such as banana foster bread pudding or chocolates.