Ford Mansion Basement Barrel
Glenbrook Brewery

 

 

Bottle #304. Poured into a shaker glass at 64° It is a deep mahogany with almost a finger of long-lasting, frothy, khaki-colored head and heavy, sticky lacing. It smells of roasted malt, earthy char, tobacco smoke, peat, and subtle but noticeable bourbon. The taste is earthy and bitter with notes of burnt coffee grounds and charred nutty malt. About the only sweetness comes from the Knob Creek bourbon barrels - and that is minimal. I like the way Glenbrook handled the barrel: it adds flavor and warmth but it's delicate. Basically, this is a minimalist Porter with good barrel notes. The mouth feel is pleasantly creamy with appropriate carbonation, and the 10.5% ABV is evident. Overall, Ford Mansion Basement Barrel is well-crafted and enjoyable. It's a simple brew that would pair well with roasted meat or game. If you like adjunct-laden Porters, then you might not care for it but I enjoyed it.