Immoak Ale
Dogfish Head Craft Brewery

 

Enjoyed at the Festival of Barrel Aged Beer, hosted by the Goose Island Brewpub in Chicago IL this past weekend. Anyone who was fortunate enough to attend this festival will agree that this beer was one of the top 2 or 3 out of a class of flawless beers. It is described as "A strong ale brewed with peat-smoke malt, juniper, vanilla and maple syrup aged on oak." An identifiable offspring of Immort Ale with new twists and characters that only Dogfish Head Brewery could congure up. Looks lighter than Immort but with a serious ability to show legs on the side of the glass. Low carbonated because of wood aging and alcohol. Colors of a glossy, but crystal clear golden-copper hue. Aromas of the maple syrup and vanilla offers glimpses of sweetness to come. The oak gives a nuttyness, toastyness, and a mequite smokiness. Flavors, equal to the aromas, are highly pronounced from sip to finish. The oak aging rounds off the rough edges that would otherwise be present in such a high alcohol beer. Strong fruitiness shines in the form of cherries, juniper berries, blackberries peaches, and dates. No fruity tartness; only sweetness from the over-ripe variety. The body is moderately thick, lightly syrupy, and short of cloying. Easy to drink despite it's complexity and sweetness. Finishes sweet and lingering with vanilla and caramel alcohols. Not as drying as one would expect. I hope I get the pleasure to drink this one again.