Barrelation Part 2
Ithaca Beer Company

Growler poured into an Idle Hands tulip.

A - Pours a deep, dark mahogany brown with very good clarity. A small off white half finger of fizzy head forms briefly and falls to leave only a collar on the glass. Carbonation seems a bit low, probably due to the growler although it is only 3 days old since filling.

S - Overall gives a sweet impression. Higher alcohols, sweet, sugary, candy sugar, a bit phenolic, touch of bubble gum, noticeable brandy barrel, spicy/cinnamon/nutmeg, maltose, hardly any hops are noticeable.

T - A bit sweet, sugary, light brown sugar, touch of grain, smooth brandy. Hints of alcohol give it a mildly boozy impression. Light hop bitterness serves mainly to balance out the otherwise sweet flavor contributors. Overall balance is good. Barrel aging is somewhat subtle and complements the base beer nicely adding some complexity that is much needed. Base is a little bit bland in flavor - barrel flavors help out quite a bit here.

M - Somewhat light in body for style and feels a bit thin. Carbonation is on the lower side, again likely from the growler, but manages a faint tingle on the tongue. Brandy is smooth giving only a faint alcohol warmth. I still wouldn't call this a sipper though. Goes down fairly easily in good sized gulps. Good balance overall.

O - Overall, an interesting beer. I like the brandy barrel treatment...plays off of the sweet, malty base of the dubbel. I think the base could use a bit more body and some more complexity...not a real heavy Belgium yeast flavor profile here - fermented a bit cold maybe? Would like a bit more fruitiness out of the base. I think the extra fruitiness would mesh well with the brandy and enhance the overall effect.