Lucifer's Blood
Glasstown Brewing Co.

Reviewed 2 weeks after can release on Glasstown's 10th anniversary. Poured into a tulip glass. The color is dark burgundy-ruby-cola and it sports a long-lasting half finger cap of creamy, light khaki-foam and thin sheen of lacing. The smell is rich and aromatic with sweet malts, raisin, fig, black cherry, caramel, oak, and tobacco smoke. The aroma of bourbon increases as it warms. The bourbon influence is stronger in the taste. The flavor of the base ale matches the complexity of the nose. There is the sweetness of the raisin, fig, and other dark fruit, and brown sugar but there is balancing dry oak, red wine, and Belgian spice notes. The aging in Boone County bourbon barrels imparts a soft, warming influence although it doesn't come across as overly boozy. This ale has a rich, velvety mouth feel but it's not syrupy. It is moderately carbonated and the 13% ABV is surprisingly well-hidden. I have to say that while I don't endorse the name, this Belgian Strong Ale is masterfully made and a pleasure to drink. I hope that it ages well.