Year of New Beer (Rnd 1): Cherry Sour aged in Four Roses Bourbon Barrels, West 6th Brewing (Lexingto

Written By: Dion on 09/30/2016

So this evening was the culmination of a day-and-a-half of beer geekdom. From getting to meet several industry insiders last night at Country Boy, to listening today as professional writers and brewery owners shared their experiences at the Craft Writing conference, I've thoroughly enjoyed immersing myself in craft beer for the last day or so. Top it off by sampling some truly incredible local and international beers, and I'd call it a win. Choosing one beer can be tough, but this one is worthy. A piercing cherry aroma is joined by a slightly earthy funk, augmented beautifully by hints of vanilla, bourbon, and oak. The juxtaposition of flavors is unique, but strangely complementary as the tart fruit elements come forth not only as cherry, but lemon zest and Granny Smith apples as well. With warmth, the barrel characteristics begin to take hold as a vanilla sweetness tames the sour, giving the bourbon-soaked oak an opportunity to impart the slightest of alcohol heat. This is wonderfully executed, and yet another example of how West 6th is raising the bar with their Barrel Room offerings. Phenomenal.