Reyna Brava
Cruz Blanca Brewpub

500 ml bottle into a snifter. A 2024 release, had 4/25/25.

Pours a ruby/brown amber color, fairly clear, with a brief quarter inch foamy head and some foamy lacing. Aromas of cherry liqueur, caramel, some bourbon and vanilla, a hint of chilies. Mostly the same flavors: bourbon, caramel, vanilla, malt, some cherry liqueur, light oak, light chilies. Has a bit of a sweet note. Smooth, a very good medium body, appropriately carbonated.

They call this a Cherry ale, but if that means there is a cherry component other than the liqueur barrels, I did not pick it up- except maybe for the sweetness. The cherry liqueur and bourbon barrels stand out, and the vanilla has a good presence. The chilies, you have to look a little harder for, but they do add some earthiness. The body could be filled out a little more, but overall- other than the question of what they meant by Cherry Ale, this is very enjoyable.

Had on tap. Clear red body, no head save a bubble collar. Big cherry leading the smell, with vanilla, vague berries, licorice, bourbon, and chili peppers in that order of intensity. This is great up front with the cherry and minor fruits, vanilla, and even mild peppers, but ending with a strong licorice note is odd. Wanted more fresh juiciness in the feel, plenty of booze and dries out a bit.