I am finally going to pour the last 2 bottles I have, one 2016 and one 2017. Both have been stored on their sides in continous 38-40 temp. Is there any special prep I should take, swirl, agitate, or just pour as is ? Sadly, around Xmas, I poured my last 2016 Barleywine, but it was one of the infected batches. I am currently enjoying my last Revolution Straight Jacket...WOW
2016 BW wasn’t infected. Either you had a 2015 (of which ALL were infected, unlike the stout for which only some batches were infected) or you had a 2016 that was perfectly good and poured it. Normally I would assume you misread the label, but your post is also about 2016 and 2017, so not entirely sure. No special prep. The bottle are likely to still be delicious unless you only prefer BC fresh. After 1-3 years the flavors start to change, and the ABV “burn” mellows as it becomes integrated. This isn’t scientific, just an experience that many people report. You either enjoy that or you don’t. Either way, pop them and enjoy. And report back.
