Stone Old Guardian Barleywine - Aging and Tasting Notes
By jason on Apr 30, 2008 in Barleywines & Strong Ales, Reviews
Name: Old Guardian
Brewer: Stone
Style: Barleywine
Vintage: 2008
Cellared On: March 7th, 2008
Original Tasting: March 29th, 2008
I wasn’t sure if this brew would make to Upstate NY or not. Not every Stone offering seems to make it this far (no sign of the Russian Imperial Stout yet), so I was pretty happy to see this in my local beverage mart. I happily bought a case, which I’m sure will keep me smiling (and buzzed) for years to come.
Much like the picture, Old Guardian pours a very clear amber with a slightly off white head. The smell is a very heady match of floral hops and sweet caramel malts.
The first thing that hits you after taking a sip is the hoppy bitterness. It’s floral, citrusy sour, and delivers the perfect amount of bite. However, the real show in this beer is put on by the sweet malty flavor. It’s absolutely delicious with flavors of caramel, raisins, figs, and brandy. It’s also perfectly balanced with the hop bitterness, just a wonderful combination. Bodywise, I would say the thick and slightly syrupy feel to this beer is a perfect match to the flavor. There’s just a faint hint of alcohol through the middle. The finish has hints of sweet caramel, but is mainly dominated by the lingering slightly citrus-sour bitterness.
Just a phenomenal beer, right up there with the Alaskan Barleywine for my favorite barleywine of the year.
Cellar Outlook: Hmmmm…… not sure here. I have no doubt this brew will keep up well, but Old Guardian is pretty well balanced right now. I’m not really seeing how this brew can change or develop in a positive way.
Next Tasting: September 2008
Jason
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