Live Oak Brewing Co Big Bark Amber Lager

“Complex malt-forward nose with hints of caramel, prune, raisin, chocolate, and roast complemented by light banana and clove. A touch of floral hop bitterness balances the caramel-like malt with light spicy phenols. Long bready finish closes with light dryness as a hint of chocolate and smoke lingers.”

“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.”

**Aroma:** “Rich malty nose, warm and toasty, with a bit of alcohol backbone and mild hoppiness. Banana fruitiness and a touch of caramel. No hops. Sweet bread with gingersnap cookie highlights. Candied cherry and lots of fruity es- ters—mostly apple, raisin, and pear.” **Flavor:** “Toasty and caramel, a little bit oxidized (mostly sherry but some papery notes). Fairly fruity with some stone fruit complexity and nice alcohol warmth in the swallow. Sweet with a balancing bitter foundation. Banana-like esters up front and a long, bitter nish with just enough hops bitterness to avoid being cloying.” **Overall:** “A decent English barleywine, but a bit thin-bodied and hoppy for the style. Enjoyed the banana esters, but would like more chewy malt. Could use a bit more caramel malt character and fuller mouthfeel for a more classic English barleywine experience.”