In my cellar: Celebration Ale, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.
By jason on Jul 31, 2007 in Aging Well, Bocks, IPA's, and More, Reviews
Name: Celebration Ale
Brewer: Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.
Style: IPA/Holiday Brew
Vintage: 2004
Cellared On: December 2004
Original Tasting: June 27th, 2007
The one that started it all for me (See my story here). Originally a very hoppy and spicy brew, my Celebration Ale has aged beautifully. It has turned into this smooth, deeply chocolaty gift from the beer gods. Notably less carbonation is present then when it was fresh, but the lack of CO2 actually complements the aged flavor profile very well. A slightly spicy finish remains. It’s a joy to drink.
Three-Year Tasting: December 6th, 2007
The taste profile of this beer was very interesting when comparing my notes six months earlier. I found the malt flavor to be more of a honey/caramel taste then the chocolate one I remarked on earlier. Still just a touch of hops here. Alcohol is definitely more pronounced. I still liked it, but less then I did six months ago - not a good sign.
Cellar Outlook: It will be interesting to see if this beer has hit it’s peak. I’m hoping it can develop even further!
Three year cellar outlook - It looks like this beer is on the downhill swing. I’m thinking that there still may be some interesting stuff happening with the sweet malty base, but the development of that flavor isn’t enough to offset the declining hop tastes.
Next Tasting: December 2008
I read this and just had to chime in! I’m very new to aged beers, and the other night had a Sierra Nevada from 1999, aged in a friends cellar. AMAZING. I compared from 2007, 2006, 2003, to 1999, and it only got better. Much smoother, with a very sweet, almost honey taste. Just had to comment, thanks for all the info!
Josh | Nov 30, 2007 | Reply