Bell Buoy - Barrel Aged W/ Peaches
Slack Tide Brewing Co.

Bottle #108 of 400. Based upon advice received at the brewery, I put the bottle in the freezer for about 20 minutes before opening. Poured into a tulip glass. It pours a cloudy, muddy apricot color with a thin, creamy, bright white cap and thick, attractive lacing. The nose is big and fragrant with notes of white wine and Belgian yeast/funk. But the sour/tart aroma is balanced by noticeable peach sweetness. Wow, this is different. The base Bell Buoy is a solid Belgian Blonde Ale to begin with having appropriate notes of lemon, coriander, and peppercorn. But the flavor is enhanced by aging in Pineau des Charentes barrels which contribute notes of dry, sauvignon blanc and musty oak and the sophistication of an apéritif . But conditioning the brew on fresh Jersey peaches is a masterstroke that adds a really nice balancing touch of fruity sweetness. The flavors are complex but blend very well. This ale has a thick, creamy mouth feel with pleasant carbonation, and it drinks very easily for 8.5% ABV. Overall, this variant of Bell Buoy is simply a delight to drink. I'm glad I have a couple more bottles.