Angel's Share 2009 Bourbon Barrel Version
The Lost Abbey
San Marcos, California
12.50% ABV
C. Cloudy even though it is dark
H. Carmel-ish Dark Brown
N. HUGE alcohol burn in the nose, almost smelled like children's vitamins with alcohol
Eduardo; Wow, this bad boy had basically no carbonation. It was basically the opposite of this beer we reviewed earlier this week. I could make jokes about Lost Abbey's low carb tendencies but that's played out and too easy.
This has a big nose. There is no doubt about this being a bourbon barrel aged beer. Some slight similarities to Samuel Adams Utopias on the nose. I got a small sensation similar to when I sniff 40% ABV spirits straight on the nose like an alcohol burn. There is also something on the nose that reminds me of the smell of the vitamins my mother gave me when I was a kid. Interesting.
Before I read more on this beer I assumed the base beer was an imperial stout. I was surprised to find it was a barley-wine. It works really well. The taste is not quite as big as the nose implied. Lots of raisin notes present. Very drinkable for the 12.5% ABV. The flavors are well balanced and integrated. Great complexity and mouth feel. For being a barley-wine style beer I am really not picking up any hop bitterness.
I don't think any aging of this beer is necessary. I can't see how it would benefit.
Score: 4.1
The Ferm; Unlike the Wild Dog we had prior (see below) there was a slight "pop" to this cork, although it was less carbonated, which seems to be an on going issue with The Lost Abbey. That said this beer almost drank like Sam Adam's Utopia's which to me was the consistency of a Cognac. I guess you could say this is the "poor-man's Utopias" although it isn't as large ABV wise it taste similar. Like a sexy tall woman the legs take over the glass. The alcohol is very present in the nose, but not so much on the palette. Making this beer one that could creep up quick. Overall a very solid beer.
Score: 4.1223
Overall: 4.11115
**Note All Reviews Are Done Separately & Not Discussed Till After The Review**
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When we sampled this at Coffee District, thanks to Charlie, I enjoyed it. Yes there was really no carbonation to it but I don't think it really needed it for the style. The nose did seem to have more of the bourbon smell than the taste so I definitely agree with both of you on that. And I do agree with Ed that it doesn't need aging. I can only see it becoming more syrup like with time and that can be rough.
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