Tax Holiday - Orange Cognac Barrel-Aged
Taxman Brewing Co.

Thanks to jkblr for this one from a recent trade. 12oz can (dated 11/1/19) poured into 14oz teku. Poured a solid dark mahogany color with less than 1/2 inch of tan head that had moderate retention and extremely light lacing.

The cognac was at the front of the nose, but gently so, with the base beer having the majority of scent, and a bit of orange around the edges.

Fairly similar on the tongue, just a bit bolder. The base beer was the largest portion, with the cognac around the edges. There was also a bit of alcohol flavor and heat.

The body was full and smooth, but did have a touch of alcohol heat on the finish. Maybe another couple months would help smooth that out?

Drinkability was very good, smooth and easy to drink for a 10% brew.

Overall, a very nice brew. A must-hit if you see it.

12oz canned 11/01/19 (37 days ago) poured into a snifter at fridge temp 10% ABV 32 IBU. The beer pours dark brown with orange highlights and medium brown head. The head recedes to a thin ring and a single layer of bubbles. Minimal lacing. The aroma is malty with oak barrel and light citrus notes. The taste is more malt & honey with citrusy, boozey barrel coming through mid-palate and sticking around until the mildly bitter finish. The alcohol presence in the aroma and taste actually grow as the beer warms, but seems to be intentional and well integrated. It rides a line between balance and too much. The mouthfeel is medium bodied with just less than medium carbonation and a dry, oaky finish. Overall, good, but not great. I applaud Taxman's willingness to experiment with all types of spirit barrels. I've not had a bad beer Vault Series beer from them. I have another can to share or age for a while. I predict this will be better in a few months.