Brandy Barrel Aged Grizz
Bear Republic Brewing Co.

 

 

 

On tap at Mission Dolores (Brooklyn, NY)

Look: The body is like an obsidian rock--black, heavy, and beyond opaque. The light brown head is but a sliver, but considering the 9.5% ABV, this isn't that disconcerting.

Smell: A candy bomb that will make you pull back and say, "Woah," in a mostly good way. Chocolate, nuts, and evaporated milk team up to create Eau de Babe Ruth Candy Bar. After a whiff or two, the brandy barrel is detected. Being mixed with much sweetness, it takes on the smell of tequila. I wonder what I'm in for: something scrumptious, or something sickening?

Taste: When it first hits the tongue, the taste is of milk chocolate frosting. Cherry cordial then quickly turns the flavor to that of a rich truffle, but caramel, agave, and a pop of bubblegum in the finish confirm that this is one malty ball of sweetness. Thank goodness for the brandy barrels--their aged oakiness keeps this drink adult.

Mouthfeel: As chewy as a beer can be without seeming like straight molasses. Remarkably, there's very little stickiness; as thick as it is, the mouthfeel doesn't swallow up the flavor. Needless to say, a beer this big comes with little carbonation. So viscous, it's fascinating.

Overall: A beer to slowly sip on when in the mood for something sweet, yet powerful. Its saccharine character should be a turnoff, but the beer is so big (in more ways than one), that it can't help but amaze. Have a drink if you can get your hands on this big fat bear hug--it's definitely an experience.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

So very, very boozy. Over the top.