Whiskey Fat Back (Leopold BA Fat Tire)
New Belgium Brewing Company

 

man this is suoer good, and honestly just what fat tire(d) has needed for awhile now! it gives it a much needed facelift and added depth from one of the better local whiskeys. there is a lot of oak and sweet vanilla and bourbon to this, it really extends and smooths out the red malts, makes it a longer, slower, more mellow journey, but it very much still fat tire underneath the whiskey and the wood. i like the sweetness, especially in the nose, it makes the now simple seeming malt base of this classic a little more interesting and rich, while the wood has a wonderful mellowing effect that clings to everything. some char from then wood helps with balance too, gives it an earthy bottom end, and adds a little zip. it seems substantially more alcoholic than it is, not that its hot or boozy, just that there is a ton of whiskey in the flavor here. i dont think the fat tire and friends collaboration beers were anything special, really not going to save the brand with those, but this is sensational. easily the best fat tire variant i have ever had, they should have made this years ago, and they should absoutely bottle it, maybe even in sixpacks if they can get enough barrels. i loved this one, it really elevates fat tire to the net level, beautifully timed and proportioned, great beer!