Our Score: 100/100
Review of Wiley Roots Brewing Co’s Vanilla Homonym
Brewery Overview
When you discover a hidden gem, you want to shout it from the rooftops. Wiley Roots Brewing Co is just that gem in the world of craft beer. Situated in prefecture that is also home to different breweries, Wiley Roots stands out with its unique brews and undeniably remarkable expertise in barrel aging. Today, we dig into one of their noteworthy creations, the Vanilla Homonym.
The Brewer’s Craft
As the brewers candidly put it, the Vanilla Homonym is “aged in bourbon barrels, conditioned on Madagascar bourbon vanilla beans”. But this succinct description hardly does justice to the masterpiece that lies within the bottle. A careful balance is struck between the potent concoction and the exquisite vanilla overtones, and the result is simply delightful.
Sensory Exploration
Upon uncorking the bottle, you immediately notice the strong oak and fudgy boozy aroma, hinting at the brew’s bourbon origins. There is a moderate vanilla presence in the aroma, adding a soothing sweetness to the overall potent charisma of the beer. As black as midnight, the appearance of the brew leaves nothing to be desired. I noted it didn’t form any head, and intriguingly, it coats the inside of the glass and doesn’t descend at all. A spectacular sight indeed.
The Flavor Experience
The flavor profile of Wiley Roots Brewing Co’s Vanilla Homonym is an exercise in balanced decadence. It possesses a thick, rich body that ennobles the taste with dark-malt chocolate and light-roast flavors. The cocoa, fudge, and Hershey’s Syrup aspects of its taste make it sweet, yet it is fascinating how this sweetness is contrasted by a firm bitterness.
Throughout the tasting journey, the vanilla character plays a complementary role, enhancing the oak without overpowering it. A surprise waiting at the end of your sip is the warming sensation graced by a deceptively subtle touch of alcohol heat. This sensation is balanced with a powerful yet non-sickly sweetness, framed perfectly by underlying bitter notes. This all creates a mélange of flavors incredibly satisfying to the palate.
The Verdict
In a beer world crowded with common clichés, Wiley Roots Brewing Co’s Vanilla Homonym is an iconoclast. The subtle roasted-nut and marshmallow-vanilla tones in the brew highlight a polished restraint, stressing subtlety over an overt embrace of its assortment of flavors. The harmony between the almond coffee taste, the tender bourbon character, and the vanilla syrup imposes a delightful coherence on the Vanilla Homonym.
This brew exudes a confidence in its understated elements, which all come together creating a spectacular effect. If well-crafted, refined yet bold beers are your cup of tea (or in this case, your glass of beer), Wiley Roots Brewing Co’s Vanilla Homonym is the one to try. It masterfully scores a 100 out of 100 for an extraordinary brewing success.
As you pour the beer into a glass, a rich dark brown color fills the vessel, with a slight tan head that dissipates quickly. The first sip reveals a smooth, velvety mouthfeel, with flavors of chocolate, caramel, and of course, vanilla. The vanilla notes are prominent but not overpowering, adding a sweet and creamy element to the overall experience. The bourbon barrel aging brings a subtle warmth and complexity to the beer, elevating it to a luxurious level.
Final Thoughts
Wiley Roots Brewing Co’s Vanilla Homonym is a true testament to the artistry of craft brewing. It’s both a sensory delight and a flavorful experience, with each element coming together harmoniously. Whether you’re a fan of barrel-aged beers or just someone who appreciates a well-crafted brew, this beer is definitely worth seeking out. Wiley Roots has once again shown why they are a hidden gem in the craft beer world, and the Vanilla Homonym is undoubtedly a standout in their impressive lineup.
Overall Score: 100/100
The Vanilla Homonym delivers on its promise of a rich and complex flavor profile. The first sip reveals a smooth and velvety mouthfeel, with the decadent flavors of caramel, toffee, and vanilla dancing on the palate. The bourbon barrel aging adds a pleasant warmth and depth to the beer, creating a truly indulgent experience. The finish is long and lingering, leaving a delightful aftertaste that entices you to take another sip. With its perfect balance of flavors and impressive craftsmanship, Wiley Roots Brewing Co’s Vanilla Homonym deserves every bit of its perfect score of 100/100.
The scent is truly inviting and sets the stage for what’s to come. With the first sip, you are greeted with a rich and velvety mouthfeel, as the flavors of bourbon, vanilla, and caramel dance on your palate. The vanilla amplifies the sweetness, but never overwhelms, allowing the other flavors to shine through. The finish is smooth and lingering, leaving you craving for more.
Final Thoughts
Wiley Roots Brewing Co’s Vanilla Homonym is a testament to the brewery’s expertise in barrel aging and their dedication to crafting impeccable brews. The combination of bourbon and vanilla is a match made in beer heaven, resulting in a beer that is both complex and approachable. Whether you’re a seasoned craft beer lover or a novice, this brew is sure to leave a lasting impression. Our score for the Vanilla Homonym: 100/100.
The vanilla notes come through subtly at first, but as you take your first sip, they explode on your palate, creating a complex and harmonious flavor profile. The mouthfeel is smooth and velvety, with just the right amount of carbonation to enhance the experience. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving you craving for more.
Final Thoughts
Wiley Roots Brewing Co’s Vanilla Homonym is a true testament to their craftsmanship and dedication to creating unique and exceptional brews. It’s a beer that commands attention and leaves a lasting impression. With its perfect score of 100/100, this is a beer that everyone should have the pleasure of trying. Cheers!