Style: Barley wine
Brewery: Firestone Walker
Origin: USA
Size: 35cl
Alcohol: 11.3%
Price: 139kr
Systembolaget: –
This was first created in 2008 as a component of Firestones annual blended barrel aged Anniversary Ale, and became so popular it continues to this day. It was originally called Abacus, but due to a name dispute in 2012 the letters were reversed. The logo is based on the brothers-in-law who began the brewery back in California in 1996, with David Walker shown as The Lion and Adam Firestone as The Bear. Their brew master Matt Brynildson has been named “Champion Brew master” four times at the World Beer Cup. If I’m honest, this was probably the beer I was most looking forward to trying at this tasting, as I love barley wines and I just knew this would be even more amazing after 6 years of resting. I am happy to report it lived up to its expectation!
This was dark chestnut brown in colour with a thin tan head that held rather well. The body looked amazing, with it clinging to the glass when swirled. The aroma was absolutely delightful, with love maple, toffee, figs, plums and brown sugar blending together along with a warming note. The dark, dried fruit hit the palate first upon tasting, then followed up by the brown sugar sweetness and robust hit of alcohol. With a soft carbonation and sticky body, notes of caramel, syrup and plums were also present. A mild, spicy bitterness counterbalanced the long, oily sweetness in the aftertaste well.
This was probably the highlight of the night for me. Aged for five years, this just blew me away with its complex flavours and every sip was delicious. I wish I had bought more, even thought it was so expensive, as it was worth every penny. If you ever get the chance to try this, then please do, as you won’t regret it.