With Brooding Wings
Cigar City Brewing

CCB keeps things sort of obscure for bottled date and ABV, but are clear it’s aged in Pinot noir then brandy barrels. Heavy pinot noir presence in both aroma and up front taste. Color is a slightly murky ruddy chestnut. Loads of legs. Brandy carries a bit toward the end of the sip, following the Pinot noir, lending a bit more earthiness behind the vinous notes. The Baltic porter aspects are difficult to find, but not in a bad way. It’s veneered or absorbed into the other flavors, making for an overall savory type foundation holding up the slight dry sweetness. Toward the end after aerating, there are subtle dark chocolate notes in back. Overall, it’s smooth and velvety, with a subtle warming. Easy to knock back, but also a refined sipper. Thanks to @exactly for the trade.

Bottled in 2023
Not much going on for appearance, pours dark brown with a slight tan head around the edges that quickly disappears. No cap or lacing what so ever
Aroma is strong notes of red wine blends some dried fruits and oak barrel notes. I got a hint of tobacco.
Taste is wine forward, if there was roasted malt the barrel aging in brandy and Pinot barrels overpowered it. Some currents and a hint of maple to add some sweetness
Mouthfeel is fairly light and smooth up front, low carbonation and slightly thin feeling no burn form the 11.9 abv Finishes a bit like a good Chianti, dry and slightly astringent
Overall I like the aroma and it’s smooth and light, the barrel aging process hid most if not all of the porter characteristics. Not being a big porter drinker I really liked the way this one tasted

Bottled 2023. Poured at 56°. Dark brown with ruby edges; thin mixed head that disappeared quickly leaving no cap retention nor ring; some small spots on agitation; no legs on swirl. Red wine, port wine nose. Red wine, semi-sweet raisins, figs; spicy oak tannins; a little toffee on backend as beer warms. Medium light body; light carbonation; minimal warmth from 11.9%; dry barrel/tannic tongue coating; mild astringency. Overall, the barrel notes stand front and center; I hardly know I’m drinking a Baltic Porter; long dry semi bitter finish.