Deschutes Brewery Jubel (2015) American Strong Ale at 10.4% ABV | 55 IBU (C$23.30 at Liquor Crossing Red Deer, 650 ml, no packaging date or best before, best after 23-Jan-2016, acquired 24-Aug-2016, reviewed 18-Jan-2018)
Appearance: murky medium to deep amber with one fat finger of loose beige head, good retention and moderate lacing. (4/5) Aroma: caramel/toffee, dark dried fruit, oak, herbal, hints of red wine. (9/10) Taste: high sweet, moderate-high bitter. (9/10) Palate: full body, moderate-soft carbonation, lingering boozy bitter finish. (4/5)
I gotta say, that is one helluva beer – very similar to Arrogant Bastard, actually. This vintage is a couplethree years old, and it’s cellared very well indeed, with very little edge or harshness associated with either its very high ABV or its high IBU. It drinks very easily, with both the alcohol burn and the bitter bite well in the back end of the finish. Moreover, as the pint progresses, the alcohol warming tempers both, making it even more pleasant. Big without being overwhelming, and even-handed despite being heavy. Well done indeed. (17/20)
8.5/10 #ryansbooze ryansbooze.com
