Our Score: 100/100
Brew Review: Perennial Artisan Ales Barrel-Aged Abraxas
About the Brewery
Perennial Artisan Ales has garnered much attention and acclaim for their unique and sophisticated takes on traditional brews. Their Barrel-Aged Abraxas, an imperial stout aged twelve months in Rittenhouse Rye barrels with cacao nibs, vanilla beans, ancho chiles, and cinnamon sticks, is a representation of their creative flair and mastery of brewing. With passionate devotion to crafting only the best, the brewers have transformed traditional ingredients into an alchemic masterpiece.
The Aroma: A Sensorial Revelation
The aroma of this stout is nothing short of intoxicating. An initial whiff reveals smoky chile notes effortlessly intermingling with the sweet scent of cinnamon and vanilla. Subtle hints of plum and sweet tobacco add depth to the bouquet, augmenting its complexity. A gentle, underlying current of French-roast coffee with a dash of maple sweetness completes this olfactory experience, effortlessly emphasizing the chocolate and roasted elements of the base stout. The aroma is a prelude to the sensational taste journey to come.
The Flavor: A Palatable Symphony
The flavor is an alluring mix of dried plums and apricots entwined with the warming heat of cinnamon and chiles. This brew proves a tour de force in taste balance; the roasted base asserts itself confidently, counterbalancing the sweet tones of chocolate and making room for the barrel to interweave its signature deep toffee flavor. Each element dances together on the palate in a symphony of flavors that is as enticing as it is dauntingly complex.
Overall: A Benchmark in Brewing Excellence
The barrel character is nothing short of exceptional, its presence further enhancing the delightful complexity of the base beer and adjunctions into a sensory experience that is utterly out of this world. The combination of flavors and the multiplicity of their interactions create complexity that soars off the charts, yet the brew maintains a surprisingly drinkable nature. An almost luxurious mouthfeel elevates this stout encore higher: it is rich, viscous, and full-bodied, yet not cloying. With an admirable degree of finesse, it remains restrained, providing just the right amount of structure for the explosive flavors. The Barrel-Aged Abraxas sets a new standard against which all other stouts from this category will inevitably be judged.
And a commitment to using high-quality ingredients, Perennial Artisan Ales consistently delivers exceptional beers.
Review
The Barrel-Aged Abraxas from Perennial Artisan Ales is a masterpiece in brewing. The combination of flavors in this imperial stout is perfectly balanced, with the richness of the cacao nibs and vanilla beans complementing the subtle heat from the ancho chiles and warmth from the cinnamon sticks. The aging process in Rittenhouse Rye barrels adds an additional depth of complexity to the beer, resulting in a smooth and velvety mouthfeel. Each sip is a sensory experience, revealing layers of flavor and nuance. With an impeccable score of 100, this beer is truly deserving of its acclaim and a must-try for any beer enthusiast.
Overall Score: 100/100
Note: The score mentioned here is based on our personal opinion and may vary from individual preferences.
And attention to detail, Perennial Artisan Ales consistently produces exceptional beers that are a delight to the senses.
Tasting Notes
The Barrel-Aged Abraxas pours an opaque black with a thick, creamy tan head. The aromas are an enticing blend of dark chocolate, roasted coffee, and subtle hints of spicy peppers. On the palate, the beer is rich and velvety, with flavors of decadent dark chocolate and smooth vanilla. The spiciness of the ancho chiles adds a pleasant warmth, while the cinnamon brings a touch of sweetness. The Rittenhouse Rye barrels contribute a subtle whiskey note that rounds out the complex flavor profile. The beer finishes with a lingering warmth and a slight bitterness, making it the perfect companion for a cold winter’s night.
Overall Impression
Perennial Artisan Ales’ Barrel-Aged Abraxas is a masterpiece of a beer. The combination of flavors and aromas is expertly balanced, creating a complex and truly enjoyable drinking experience. The barrel aging adds depth and complexity, elevating the beer to new heights. This is a beer that demands to be savored and appreciated. If you have the opportunity, do not hesitate to try this outstanding brew.
Our Score: 100/100
Note: This score represents our personal opinion and may vary from person to person.
Overall, Perennial Artisan Ales’ Barrel-Aged Abraxas is an exceptional beer that showcases the brewery’s skill and creativity. With its rich flavors, complex aroma, and perfect balance, it is truly a beer to be cherished.