Wood Worker, Collusion (2017: Dulce de Leche with Coffee & Vanilla)
Baerlic Beer Company

Obsidian black, reflective and intense looking. The dark tan foam ring clings to the perimeter but not much else.

The aroma is deeply engrained with the wood it comes from. Coffee, chocolate, and booze are only afterthoughts. Spices, though not exactly distinguished, creep softly in the background, but I can only assume they are derived from the intensity of the barrels influence.

With the first sip, I notice immediately that this is special. Sweet dark cherries covered in chocolate. Cinnamon and nutmeg over toasted walnuts before chewing on an oak stave soaked gently in a fine spirit.

And my God that texture. Silky, rich, and smooth, viscous fluid that coats everything it touches. The prickling effect hits before the sweetness, then a tingle before the oily, roasted bitter finish. The alcohol is just right as it doesn't burn, but just warms the chest.

I've only had two Wood Workers from Baerlic, this obviously being the second. Both were/are in a class of their own. This is exceptionally delicious and plan to snag up the last hidden gems around town that I'm aware of. Cheers.