Harvest Ale
Seneca Lake Brewing Company

This 2.5" light beige foam is a surprise, for a Barleywine. And it recedes at a glacieral pace too, leaving copious lacing in its wake. The beer is brilliantly clear, amber-copper, in a Swiftwater Snifter. A thick viscous film coats the glass, producing no legs. Carbonation forms no noticeable bubbles.

The aroma opens with spicy caramel, probably due to the alcohol fumes. The fumes are mild, yet very much present. Light fig and raisins follow, with a late sense of old leather. Two years of age may have subdued this one.

Light bitterness is evenly matched by sweetness. The raisins and figs are quickly displaced by light molasses. Maybe there is a note of sherry. The finish is mild and drawn out, bringing back the raisins. Warmth elevates the sweetness over bitterness while adding an earthy sensation.

Dryer than most Barleywines, with a full body and a slick silky texture that becomes creamy with warmth. While the alcohol is pronounced, there is no heat, and it feels lower than as labeled. Carbonation is soft and creamy throughout.

This is a pleasant sipping beer, and definitely has characteristics of cask ale. Maybe age has softened, rather than concentrated the aroma/flavor. It lacks the layers and character that I expect. All said, this is much easier to consume than most Barleywines and has a cozy nature.

Cask pour at the brewery. Pours a dark reddish brown. Aroma and flavor feature caramel malt, earthy hops, a hint of candied orange, and cocoa powder. Mouthfeel is very soft. I'd be curious to try this in a regular carbonated format.