Aroma: “Rich caramel and even molasses-like malt sweetness up front with a range of fruity esters, including raisin, fig, and apricot. Deep port-like aroma with perhaps a faint whiff of herbal hops. Pleasant alcohol warmth. Slight chocolate and toasted tones show up as it warms.”

Flavor: “Thick chewy malt base delivers on the promises of the aroma. Good, firm bitterness adds to the overall impression without dominating. Reminds me of a liquid fruitcake in a good way (not citrus fruits, but dark ones). Finishes with a pleasant sweetness that lingers.”

Overall: “This is a delightful English-style barleywine with each of the elements playing well together. It’s like a fine port—warmth in the finish suggests that it might be a little on the young side, but it’s certainly enjoyable now. Put a few of these away to try annually at the holidays.”