Year of New Beer: Bourbon Barrel Aged Mass Extinction, Twin Leaf Brewing (Asheville)

Written By: Dion on 04/10/2018

Twenty months in the barrel produces a big, boozy nose with notes of charred oak, bittersweet chocolate, and dark fruits. Warmth allows leather, vanilla, and a campfire char to emerge. The initial hit to the taste buds is a hot bourbon and dark toast, with undercurrents of cocoa powder and earthy hops. Letting this breathe brings some serious development as the heat begins to mellow, allowing the roast of the base beer take hold. Raisins, plums, and figs combine with burnt sugars to coat the tongue in layers of flavors. Oak, caramel, and vanilla on a dry, hoppy finish. Glad I took a chance on this one, absolutely delicious.