Barleywine
De Steeg Brewing Company

really far out brew here. pouring a generic looking dark copper clear color with almost no head, totally still in looks. nose of tart fruit and big grain, sweet too, complex and layered. I found out its made with pinot noir grape concentrate, and that really affects the flavor. so much tannic tart wine grape to this, its a great balance to the sweeter English malts, toffee overtones, and brown sugar residuals. it lightens things up with a clever seasonal additive, and hides the alcohol strength of this extremely well. I wish it wasn't so flat, more bubbles would make this a total winner, but its big body is made heavier by its lack of fizz. I absolutely love the flavors though, and appreciate its complexity despite its not impressive looks and feel. a bold step forward for the style, and an ambitious brew from de steeg. a heck of an introduction if you ask me, these guys are going to make some beauties if this is any indication. needs work, but its the foundation for greatness.