Hiding abv

I think you both have a valid point. At least some of us in the homebrew thread drink mostly homebrew. This can limit us in what is out there because we don't buy off the shelves as much as the guys and gals in the general forums. What's out there? Jack Shit in Indianapolis. Sometimes, it makes me wonder why I don't move to Colorado or California for better selection. I drink about 85% homebrew.

 

I will echo others in saying that fermentation control for your particular strain is key. I use 1968 on my RIS and Barleywines so that will lend credence to the high final gravity. However, I find the Belgian strains hide the alcohol pretty well on their own at a lower final gravity using some abusive fermentation temperatures.