Year of New Beer: Secret Santa Bottle Share 2016

Written By: Dion on 12/17/2016

I've spent 20 plus years developing a pretty decent palate for good beer. The most important thing I've learned? All beers taste better when they are shared with friends. Tonight I got to share many excellent beers, but the conversation enjoyed overshadowed the beverages. So nothing long and drawn out tonight, just a handful that stood out. Big Bad Baptista, Epic Brewing (UT). Nice chocolate and coffee balanced by a nearly perfect bite of cinnamon spice, vanilla sweetness, and bourbon heat. Delicious. Vinosynth White, Upland Brewing (IN). Bright, tart fruits are sour on the tongue, with just a trace of white grape sugars before the funkiness takes over. Very nice. 2014 Bourbon Barrel Aged Dark Star, Fremont Brewing (WA). Brown sugar and dark fruits hit the nose with sweetness, turning smooth and creamy on the tongue, beefed up by gentle notes of bourbon, oak, and vanilla. Outstanding. Many awesome beers tonight, but better company.