Barrel Aged Rob Roy Wee Heavy Scotch Ale
Northwood Public House / Little Dipper Brewing

Poured from a growler into a Fremont small snifter; a dark, hazy reddish brown with a half finger light khaki head with good retention and lacing. Aroma of caramel malt, dates, figs, raisins, plums and some mild smokiness. Flavor dry caramel and light smoked malt, dates, figs, wood and a hint of whiskey. Finishes dry, malty and woody. Medium bodied with light creaminess. An interesting, dry wee heavy, missing some of the fresh dark fruit flavors and sweetness in the finish. However, this is a wee heavy barreled in whiskey barrels that had previously held stout, and it pretty much delivers that experience, with some dark malt notes, solid woody bitterness and just wisps of whiskey. I miss the traditional light sweetness a bit, but the barrel character is flavorful and well supported by the robust base Scotch ale. The dry, woody finish was rather surprising at first, but ultimately fitting and satisfying. Nicely done.