Year of New Beer: The Virgin Queen BBA, Rock House Brewing (Lexington)

Written By: Dion on 05/12/2019

One of the better red ales I've had recently gets the bourbon barrel treatment for a limited Lexington Craft Beer Week release. I tried a few variants yesterday, but held off on this one, deciding instead to devote my attention to a larger sample size. No mistaking the bourbon on the nose, as it permeates from start to finish. Still plenty of caramel and nutty tones, but the lighter, earthy hops from the base beer get a little lost. Pretty similar flavor profile as the bourbon commands your attention. It's not a bourbon heat, however. Instead the sweeter caramel and vanilla aspects are showcased, with faint hints of oak. The malt backbone keeps the sweet theme present throughout. Finishes a bit cola-like. Smooth and easy-drinking for the ABV, well worth the price.