2009 Torbata - A Bad Choice to Age

I continue to clean the cellar and sometimes taste a few of the bottles that I'm finding "hidden" or in boxes that were not marked.

Just opened a 2009 Almond '22 "Torbata." "Old factory ale brewed with Honey (Chestnut) and orange zest."

Aging this one, even by accident, was a big mistake. The bottle was in my 55 degree cellar since purchased. I find the cellar and the temperature to be wonderful for my wines and beer. The temperature is sufficient so that the aging process works well with both drinks. However, for the Torbata, 4 years is just waaaaaay too much.

I have found most "over-aged" beers to at least by somewhat drinkable. I am usually able to swallow. Here, this was one of the few beers I've ever had to spit out.

I'm hoping to do an Italian beer tasting with my tasting group this year - this shows me that I better serve them fresh!