Thomas Hardy’s Ale, Golden Edition 2018
Meantime Brewing Co.
Story by:
Bev Blackwood
English Barleywine
Limited Release
United Kingdom
Judges Ratings 94
Aroma: 22 / 24
Flavor: 37 / 40
Appearance: 6 / 6
Mouthfeel: 10 / 10
Overall Impression: 19 / 20
Description
Amber colored Barley Wine laden with bronze glints. On the nose, straight away the bouquet has impact, intensity and complexity with notes of both candied and alcohol-soaked fruit, dried figs, fresh tobacco and chocolate, while a caramel sensation is perceived but remains in the background. In the mouth, the initial sensation is of incredible density and softness, a silky warmth accompanying memories of bitter orange marmalade, dried fruit and chestnut honey.
The finale provides a refreshing, slightly sharp hint that adds harmony and balance.
Enjoy immediately, but it can also be stored in the wine cellar to taste its evolution over time.
Beverage Profile
ABV: 13%
IBUs:
Served at: (50 – 55º F)
Hops: Fuggle, Golding
Malts: Warminster Marris Otter, Light Crystal
Judges Review
By Michael Heniff
Judges Ratings 94
Aroma: 22 / 24 / 24
Flavor: 37 / 40 / 40
Appearance: 6 / 6 / 6
Mouthfeel: 10 / 10 / 10
Overall Impression: 19 / 20 / 20
Thomas Hardy’s Ale, Golden Edition 2018 by Meantime Brewing Co. was evaluated as an English Barleywine (category 17D in the 2021 BJCP Beer Style Guidelines). Barleywines are among the strongest of beer styles with rich malt flavors and alcohol regularly exceeding 10% ABV. Thomas Hardy’s Ale is one of the most storied English Barleywines having been brewed since 1968. This vintage was brewed in 2018 as the 50th Anniversary version and measures in at 13% ABV.
Thomas Hardy’s Ale, Golden Edition 2018 pours amber in color with a moderate haziness and a small rim of off-white head. The aroma is prominently rich caramel and toffee malt; moderate dark fruit plum esters complement the malt. The body is medium-full and the mouthfeel has a moderate (but never harsh) alcohol warmth. The beer’s flavor is again rich caramel and toffee malt with moderate dark fruit plum esters and very little hops. A moderately light sweetness is present. The beer finishes with a moderately light bitterness and a light sweetness. The finish lingers on with moderate caramel and toffee malt elements alongside a light alcohol warmth.
Thomas Hardy’s Ale has long been an icon of English Barleywines and this limited-edition example is no exception. At six years old, this vintage is a fine example of a top-tier barleywine. Even though it will still mature into an even more rich and complex example for many years, I recommend buying some to enjoy now while also stashing some away for the most exclusive bottle shares. Cheers!
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