From Saint Arnold:
The next beer in our Bishop's Barrel series started as an idea of how to make a beer like a cocktail without adjuncts or spices. The Old Fashioned was the inspiration, as it's a favorite of the brewers. With that, we knew rye whiskey barrels would need to be the vessel this beer would rest in. Lucky for us, we were able to source WhistlePig Rye Whiskey barrels.
The base beer for Bishop's Barrel No. 15 is an English Barleywine. The style focuses on malt complexity, rather than hops like an American Barleywine. Test brews consisted of a dry hop post aging with Amarillo hops to add a citrus-like character. But after several trials, we felt the hops were distracting from an already great barrel aged beer.
The appearance is blood red with a thin, off-white head that lingers. Aroma is rich with deep caramel malt, toffee, and dark fruit notes. The rye whiskey character brings out more spice and oak than a bourbon barrel aged beer, which typically lends more coconut and vanilla. The high alcohol (13.1% ABV, the highest of any beer we've released) does not hide itself, but remains in balance with the thick body of the beer. While the beer coats the glass, it also coats the throat and mouth.
This is to be enjoyed over a long session so as not to rush the blossom of subtle floral characters in the aroma as the beer warms. When swirled, the rich malt and whiskey comes out and reminds you this is a beverage to be patient with and enjoyed slowly. This beer is ready to enjoy now, however it's built to age gracefully with proper cellaring. Enjoy between 55° and 65°.
But Wait! There's More!
Usually, this is where we tell you bottles are available at bars and restaurants only. But the times they are a-changin', friend.
For the first time - due to popular demand - Bishop's Barrel No. 15 will be available in stores. That's right! You'll find a limited amount of bottles in grocery stores and liquor stores. Remember though, this is a limited release beer. It will not be everywhere, and it won't last long.
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