We spoke with Wild Leap Brew Co. Chief Brewing Officer Chris Elliott about Lone Buffalo: Cherry Brandy Barrel Aged Stout.
Who was responsible for this beer’s recipe?
I built this recipe with the help of my brewing team. We analyzed some of our stout recipes that have held up well in barrels, and we built a new recipe just for this series. The base recipe already had some cherry and dark fruit notes and when combined with some time in a cherry brandy barrel, the beer is absolutely delicious.
What sets this beer apart from other examples within the style?
I’m proud of the fact that all the cherry and vanilla flavors came from the barrel, we didn't add any additional adjuncts pre- or post-barrel aging. There is a purity to this beer that makes it unique.
What makes this beer truly World Class?
I think this beer is perfectly balanced, thanks to a lower hop character and a rich and complex malt bill. We let the barrels do the work for us in the Lone Buffalo series and try to make a base beer that complements the oak and cherry.
What is your favorite aspect of this beer (flavor, aroma, mouthfeel, etc.)?
I love the flavor – incredibly rich chocolate cherry flavors meld with touches of oak and vanilla.
How popular is this beer among your faithful fans?
Our Lone Buffalo series of barrel-aged stouts has become very popular, but this has definitely been one of the fastest-selling versions that we have made to date.
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