Stone Brewing Company Odd Old Guardian Extra Hoppy (2015) American Barleywine at 11% ABV | 80 IBU (C$10.25 at Willow Park Wine & Spirits, 650 ml, packaged on 11-Feb-2015, acquired 21-Apr-2015, reviewed 1-Jul-2018)
Appearance: clear deep amber with one fat finger of creamy ivory head, good retention and well-defined soapy lacing. (4/5) Aroma: caramel & toffee, oak, stone & tropical fruit, nuts, leafy greens, toasted bread. (9/10) Taste: moderate sweet, high bitter. (9/10) Palate: medium slick body, moderate-high carbonation, off-dry lingering bitter warming finish. (4/5)
At three years in the cellar, I expected this “extra hoppy” to be pretty much identical to its non-odd classic sibling. But, fact is, there’s a little hoppy kick still remaining. This isn’t clearly preferable to the “normal” version, but it’s certainly a viable alternative. (Assuming, y’know, you’ve got multiple three year old one-offs just jostling about in your cellar and vying for your attention. Which, yeah, I do. If you don’t, too bad, so sad, sux 2 B U.) (17/20)
8.5/10 #ryansbooze ryansbooze.com
