BA Old Ruffian Vertical Tasting (2008, 2009, 2011)

Our crew busted out a three year vertical of Barrel Aged Old Ruffian this weekend....snapped some shots and noted the rather interesting results (we opened newest to oldest):



The lineup (L-R): 2008, 2009, 2011

2011: This one just tasted fresh. Carbonation was spot-on, really nice and creamy. Quite hoppy/bitter and with plenty of barrel character. A lot of flavors going on here. Looking forward to revisiting this one again in a year or so.



2009: Hmmmm....this one didn't seem all that promising from the initial pour. 2009 has always been really low on the carbonation scale...seemingly flat, even. However, it was still really delicious. Oddly, it tasted much older than its true age (I would've guess 5+ years if I didn't know any better). A nice touch of oxidation and tons of dark fruits. This one almost struck me as an English Barleywine rather than an American, at this point. I probably wouldn't sit on this one for too much longer, though.



2008: Had no idea what to expect with this one as there really haven't been a lot promising reviews for this particular vintage (and I've never actually had it either). Was pleasantly surprised at how nicely this poured. Thick, frothy head....looked beautiful in the glass. Aromas were off the chart on this one. Sooooooooo much bourbon and hardly any noticeable oxidation. This one was absolutely incredible and easily my favorite of the three vintages (almost unanimous). Feels strange to say this, but this one could probably hang around for a tiny bit longer...but why wait? It's fucking amazing!!!