Friday 6 January 2012

Mikkeller Big Worse Barley Wine

Good evening all. I've just conquered an epic steak dinner along with a generous helping of my own roulade, so the perfect conclusion to the evening would be a full-bodied, boozy libation. It's with great relief then that I've chosen Big Worse Barley Wine from Mikkeller. Can't remember the last time I had a Barley Wine, so I'm looking forward to this one a lot. With Thelonious Monk blaring from the speakers, it's time for the review....


Big Worse (12.0% ABV) pours a nut-brown colour with a bubbly beige head that dissolves to a thick halo around the inside of the glass. The aroma is very sweet- certainly a lot of candy sugar in it- with a citrus hop character that blends well with the sweetness. There is also a dark fruits aroma, reminiscent of blackcurrants. Very impressed so far! The taste is just as sweet and fruity, with a slight bitterness in the finish accompanied by a burnt sugar flavour. The alcohol is noticeable but not offensive, and compliments the experience very well. The oily hop flavours manage to come through despite the sweetness, adding an extra fruity dimension to the taste. The mouthfeel is quite light with moderate carbonation. This is quite a complex beer but one that could please a variety of beer drinkers. The candy sugar and the hops are well-balanced and despite the ABV percentage, the beer is very drinkable. Ideal for a post-dessert drink. I am a fan, but I wouldn't rush out to get it again as it's not exactly a beer for all seasons.

Until next time....

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