Firestone Walker Brewing Co XXVIII Anniversary Ale
What the brewers say
“Strong ale blended from seven beers aged in bourbon and rye barrels.”
What our panel thought
“Spicy and caramelly with licorice notes in the aroma. Dry leathery caramel, fig, fruity pear esters. Lightly roasted coffee, some cooked sugar. Smooth, aged rye-barrel wood complements the smooth, rich toffee malt. Finishes with just enough lingering bitterness.”
What our editors thought
“Direct aroma with light caramel and spicy notes, tastefully restrained barrel, and a bit of baseline chocolate. Vibrant in the sip, youthful despite the age, and blended with a bias toward energy over heft.”