Barrel-Aged Cinnamon Dream
Hoppin' Frog Brewery

Oh my god, only two people have rated this, and one is the legendary Sabtos. Bought this cuz i never tried it before, was about $10 purchased at the brewery on Thanksgiving break. My mom was in the hospital today so I really need to unwind. Let's see how this does. Cola color on the pour beefs up a lively head about an inch thick that bubbles and sparkles like crazy for about 10 seconds and immediately dissipates into absolute stillness. No lacing to be had whatsoever. The scent is only slightly alluring, very heavy on the cinnamon and with the spice of the bourbon. Taste is malty and dark, as expected heavy on the cinnamon. Bourbon taste is minimal though and the cinnamon is more of an aftertaste that sweeps the mouth after the swallow. Mouthfeel is medium bodied thick. Overall it's Cinnamony but not quite a dream as it's name implies. I honestly could've used MORE cinnamon, balanced by a little sugar to make this more of a cinnamon cookie type flavor. I think Hoppin Frog did a good job but I don't think they took it FAR enough, as the flavors weren't as intense as some of their better beers. I'm not complaining, this will help me get through my mom's hospitalization, but I'm not sure I'll be having this one again. Hoppin Frog has so many other great beers to choose from, they don't leave me unsatisfied, that's for sure!

 

A massive improvement over the regular version, this burnt copper-brown ale has a tan wispy blanket and a cinnamon Frosted Flakes vibe to it. There's even hints of cereal milk due to a vanillin character attributed to the light barrel. This also brings notes of caramel, yet it's slightly prickly but smooth and quite drinkable compared to the regular version, with only a minor dustiness by comparison, and a brown sugar toast swallow.