Beachin' Bay Barleywine
Coronado Brewing Company

On tap at the CBC. Aroma was great with a very hoppy smell to it, and then you detect a malt sweetness in there too. Dark red color with a thick head that left a solid sheet of lacing as it drained. A nice barleywine - this might be a little rough around the edges but it is very enjoyable.

Clear chestnut brown colour topped by a light tan head. Only moderate head retention, but considerable lace was left on the sides of the glass. Most of the aroma consisted of citrusy, resinous hops that overshadowed a moderate maltiness and slight alcohol smell. I would have liked a little more malt character in the nose to give it more depth.

Alcohol was pronounced in the flavour and warmed the palate, but wasn't overpowering or solvent-like. The bitterness was quite strong throughout and there was a vinous quality to the fruity esters. Unfortunately, still not enough of a malt backbone to provide a decent balance for the piney, citrusy hops. Alcohol and hops provided a long lasting finish. Full bodied without being heavy and served at low carbonation.

It showed up a little on the cool side, so I was forced to sit and watch it for a while as it warmed. Some aging could result in more balance in the aroma and flavour.