R&D Bramble Berry Bourbon Barrel
New Glarus Brewing Company

 

 

 

 

 

Muddy caramel with a fuzzy light tan ring.

Smell exhibits tons of woody whiskey but also a good blackberry accent that leans acetic, finished by a toasty char.

A good frothy fizz introduces semi-bitter apple skin followed by blackberry, hot whiskey, sour plum and a hint of caramel. It's less sour than the nose suggested, but the finish is cotton dry.

Bottle thanks to Ian

 

 

I didn't try this fresh, but I assume its really coming into its own with a little age. Musty basement and oak add great complexity to the smooth vanilla and berry core. I get dark cherries, blackberries, raisins, and green apples and the aroma is even better. Red wine and vinegar notes add something nice, Medium carb and mouth feel. Very well balanced. Seek this out.

 

 

 

 

 

Not the prettiest brew, but rich layers of dark fruits, soft and balanced tartness. Smooth, but not hidden barrel in the aroma.

Flavor is tart sour cherry, dark candied cherries, figs and soft Bourbon background. Everything balances together nicely to form a delicate but complex brew.

Higher side of medium body and perky carbonation.

Excellent brew, my favorite NG I've tried.

Bottle given to me by javanoire. Sat on this one for a while before enjoying, as when she gave it to me she said that the brewer suggesting waiting about 6 months. So I waited a little longer than that. Pours a muddy brown, almost like dirty river water, although light does come through. Smells fruity. I was told this was hot coming out of the gate, but man has time done it well! There are delicious sweet fruity notes, which are then followed by a faint bourbon sweetness. It is hard to achieve that in the sense where a bourbon sweetness usually dominates or overpowers other sweet flavors, but not here. The fruit flows over to the barrel. Terrific.