Stone Brewing Company Old Guardian (2013) American Barleywine at 11.6% ABV | 80 IBU (US$6.99 at Total Wines & More, Henderson NV, 650 ml, packaged on 25-Jan-2013, acquired 5-Jun-2014, 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, nuts, 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)
Honestly, I can’t discern any difference at between this one and the 2015 I had yesterday. There may be a hint of astringency in the finish, but other than that, this is pretty much the same beast at five years old, as at three. I guess that boils down to, there appears to be no good reason to cellar this for an extended period. Although this one isn’t oxidized, that’s always a risk with extended cellaring, and it doesn’t appear to accomplish much, if anything. I say, smoke ‘em if you got ‘em. (17/20)
8.5/10 #ryansbooze ryansbooze.com
