Aroma: “Aroma is fairly subdued overall. Some toffee and toasty malt. A bit of apple or pear. Bright raisin and plum characters up front with some very light green-apple aroma in the back. Slight wood aroma but very subtle. Slight caramel notes with some very light chocolate, too.”

Flavor: “Subtle malt complexity comes through with toasty and caramel notes that meld with the malt to produce a feeling of chocolate liqueur. Esters contribute notes of stewed apple, plum, and fig, while a bit of vanilla chimes in from the barrel. The aftertaste brings wine sweetness and some balancing bitterness that lingers long with a touch of black licorice.”

Overall: “Really enjoyed the complexity and balance of this one. Coffee and caramel up front with a supporting (but not overwhelming) barrel oak flavor that finishes with a mild sweetness, nuttiness, and chocolate before fading into an alcohol linger. It’s a fun old ale.”