Judge’s Review: 92 Rating – Reindeer Tears Bourbon Barrel Aged Barleywine by Heathen Brewing

Specialty Wood-Aged Beer | Seasonal | United States

By Brad Darnell

Judges Rating: 92
Aroma: 22
Appearance: 5
Flavor: 38
Mouthfeel: 9
Overall Impression: 18

Reindeer Tears Bourbon Barrel Aged Barleywine by Heathen Brewing is a Bourbon Barrel Aged Barleywine and is being evaluated as a Specialty Wood-Aged Beer (2015 BJCP Category 33B) according to BJCP guidelines. For this style expect the base beer style blended well with characteristics picked up during the wood aging (including alcoholic products previously in contact with the wood). The best examples will be smooth, flavorful, well-balanced and well-aged.

Sweet, lightly grainy malts persist in the flavor and a faint candied fruit note emerges. As the beer warms the alcohol becomes a little harsh, though stays clear of fusels and any unwanted harshness. Late floral and earthy hops finally show up and present only a slight bitterness, leaving a beer balanced well to the malt. I imagine this alongside a warm crème brûlée or bananas foster.