The Great Northern Barrel Aged Series 44
Evil Twin Brewing

Somewhat sludgy brownish black body brown ring. Smells of nutty and malty aromas with apple brandy slightly leading the bourbon, gooey caramel, tootsie roll, barley, and cocoa. Taste features both barrels working hard but here the bourbon wins, with strong supporting tones of caramel, raisin, candied almond, brûléed barrel, and leather. Feel is very warm verging on hot, yet smooth and full bodied without being too heavy, though it is sticky.

If only these Great Northern series 500ML bottle weren’t so silly expensive. Cool light purplish wax infused with glitter. “No, really, the glitter on my face is from opening a beer!”

The pour is 90% black, 10% red, nearly still. The nose is deep apple brandy; full stop.

The Great Northern Barrel Aged Series #44 is a portrait of high-wire balance. There’s a seat of deeply sweet barleywine with caramel & cherry (not sour). The barrels combine to present as something unique; apple bourbon brandy grain alcohol, mixed with some good prairie soil. Apple brandy shows quick on the end. If there’s a flaw, it’s a touch thin for a big brew.

Mixed feelings. So many feelings. Excellent up front & kind of wore out its welcome as our relationship progressed. Very good brew.