Darkness Vertical?

Discussion in 'Cellaring / Aging Beer' started by Eziel, Apr 23, 2015.

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  1. Eziel

    Eziel Pooh-Bah (2,109) Jan 31, 2013 Ohio
    Pooh-Bah Trader

    I just received 3 bottles of Surly Darkness which I've yet to try. They are 2012, 2013 and 2014. My questions are:

    1) Which one should I drink first? I've read that it has more hop aroma among other things fresh?

    2) Would anyone recommend doing a vertical on this or just drink one at a time over a period of time?

    Just curious.. Thanks
     
    #1 Eziel, Apr 23, 2015
  2. cl3

    cl3 Savant (1,244) Aug 16, 2013 Wisconsin
    Trader

    The 2014 is going to be completely different from the other 2. It was the first darkness to be barrel aged. I would start with the 2012 and and drink the others whenever ever you get the itch for an imperial stout. I don't think 2 years and a huge change in the recipe (bourbon barrel aging) make a real great vertical. That said Darkness is a tasty beer. Enjoy!
     
    #2 cl3, Apr 23, 2015
  3. cornejo

    cornejo Initiate (0) Dec 9, 2013 California

    Had a vertical of 2012-2014 recently and 2013 was the clear loser. '12 and '14 were tasting great though.
     
    #3 cornejo, Apr 23, 2015
  4. shadetree67

    shadetree67 Savant (1,072) Sep 11, 2013 Minnesota
    Trader

    I've done a 5 year vertical of darkness (09-13). It's surprising how different they were but all were good. Particularly 11 and 12

    If you have enough people, I'd try to do them at the same time. Though 14 would be completely different given it is barrel aged
     
    #4 shadetree67, Apr 23, 2015
  5. Eziel

    Eziel Pooh-Bah (2,109) Jan 31, 2013 Ohio
    Pooh-Bah Trader

    Thanks for the input @cl3 @cornejo @shadetree67

    Haven't decided how to approach these three bottles but I'm leaning toward drinking them separate starting with the 2012.

    I didn't realize the difference in the new BA vs. the old way which helps a lot. Thanks.
     
    #5 Eziel, Apr 24, 2015
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