Love Of The Damned (Spanish Brandy Barrel)
Adroit Theory Brewing Company

Judging from the aroma, the old ale base really seems to complement the brandy barrels - or in this instance, amplify it. The aforementioned base showcases itself with notes of raisin, fig, plum, leather, brown sugar. Brandy is the dominant aspect, with oak and vanilla in the background. While impressively complex, the alcohol vapors offered on the nose betray a slight lack of refinement compared to the best barrel-aged offerings. The flavor is similar to the nose, but a little better. It opens up with some brandy flavors before trailing into a middle of dark fruits, musty caramel, and leather. The finish is also musty, and also brings characteristics of oak and spices. As tasty as it is, it never quite seems to take that next step - it's hard to explain why. Maybe because it isn't terribly complex? It's very, very good, but not quite great. The feel does a great job of concealing the alcohol burn, and the somewhat slender body actually fits this beer's flavor profile well. This doesn't set my world on fire, but it's damn good. My first from Adroit Theory is a worthy offering, especially for barleywine/old ale fans.

3.72/5: Is this some two-bit zombie reference?!

 

On tap at brewery:
Pours a ruby-leaning brown, very clear. Head is sustaining a thick foamy off-white (rusty) rim. A few streams of lacing.

Nose definitely has a spirit nature to it, but date bread (dessert) notes are at the core in my mind, with a certain amount of raisinas well.

Taste is malty, for sure. The barrel aging is noticeable up front, but it is a nice accent. Raisin, bate, a bit of booze, similar to the nose but less bread. There is a nice buoying carbonation that is probably a little high for the style, but I am liking.

Really enjoy the base beer (that I need to review), but this version was a nice case where the barrel added a nice character.

After reading @Mongrel's review, I get the honey note he stated; apple and oak specifically - not as much. Vanilla I can buy into, as well, but not as a main component.

 

Nose and palate unfurl in much the same way - caramel, apple, honey, dark fruit, vanilla and oak. Definitely tastes like an old ale, with that trademark oxidized note and soft feel. Brandy barrel booze is pretty mellow. Pretty good!

 

It pours a dark, mostly cloudy red. It has a little bit of off white head that burns away quickly and there is no lacing. The aroma is mild and a nondescript sweet and it's clear the brandy barrel gave a lot to this beer. The taste is very good and a little more balanced, with dark toffee, vanilla, and dark fruit. The body is full and smooth.