Barrel Aged Smoke (Smoked Porter)
Many thanks to monsterfat for this one - been sitting on it for a while. Van Winkle produces my favorite wheated bourbons, and the 23 year old is distinguished by being from the original Stitzel Weller batches (as opposed to the Buffalo Trace owned barrels that Julian selects from now - which are terrifc in their own right). I imagine the barrels being that old will contribute less oak flavor than a newly charred barrel, but we'll see. Poured from a red-wax capped 22oz bomber into a snifter. Bottled April 10, 2008; #517 of 960. Lightless cola colored liquid with no real head to speak of (the ultra-fine collar appears to be tan, but I'm not sure). No lacing, syrupy clear fast running legs. Lush tobacco, wheat, vanillin, cocoa, pepper, caramel, and toffee in the nose. Rich and lovely. A hint of smoke around the edges. Faintly tart palate entry, thanks to the mild smoky astringency of malt and barrel char. The bourbon flavors are delicate but carry over from the aromas directly. A bit of fruit and a hint of hops comes out as well. The finish has chocolate, spice, and booze to round out the profile. My girlfriend notes peat moss and excessive sweetness... Low carbonation and a thin mouthfeel detract somewhat from the overall impression. The flavors are somewhat muted, perhaps so as not to overwhelm the base beer, but I wouldn't say they are dull or lacking. A good dessert (or in my case, breakfast/brunch) beer...