Maplewood Brewing Company Barrel Aged Cuppa Cocoanut
What the brewers say
“Fruity waves of coconut and vanilla pair with notes of rich chocolate and coffee, all complemented by expressions from the barrel.”
What our panel thought
“Aromatics come across fudgy and decadent, complemented by hints of vanilla, coconut, and boozy heat. The sip is just as rich with a syrupy and thick chocolate character that is complemented by a coconut and vanilla note and a hint of coffee-like bitterness. Over-the-top decadent, chewy, and luscious without being completely cloying. The adjuncts add layers that you want to sit and dissect in front of a fireplace. The heat is slow to arrive but emerges in the finish, providing a pleasant spicy counterpoint to all the rich sweetness.”
What our editors thought
“Fudge-forward aroma with gorgeous nutty coffee and coconut tones wrapped inside, along with a soft hint of vanilla that’s more accent than focus. Chewy in the sip with big, sweet coconut notes layered over some spicy chocolate with just enough tangy punch to avoid roasty bitterness. It’s fully formed, pulling flavor from its various elements without relying on the standard playbook, balancing energy with repose, and basking in its own dynamic tension.”
