Live Oak Brewing Co Old Treehugger Barleywine
What the brewers say
“Wine-strength ale made entirely with our base barley malt.”
What our panel thought
“Strong orange and light pine hop dominate aroma. Light caramel sweetness brings forward sweeter citrus notes and plum esters. Strong caramel sweet malt dominates. Hop flavor stays orange, subdued by the overall sweetness. Light cherry and apricot esters add complexity. Finishes sweet, overriding the hops.”
What our editors thought
“Bold citrus and grape Pixy Stix candy notes in the nose. In the sip, dry white grape notes jut out from a sharp caramel base, sculpted and succinct.”