Olde GnarlyWine is an American Barleywine brewed by Lagunitas Brewing Company, and for the purposes of this craft beer review, the ale was served in a snifter from a bottle.
Appearance
The ale pours a clear ruby red and is topped by a thick stack of rocky, cream-colored foam. The head shows fine retention and leaves abundant lacing on the glass.
Aroma
The aromatics are faint with a scent that’s a little musty with a hint of hops and lots of booze.
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Flavor
Floral and herbal hops lead the palate and recede to a bready malt base with earthy notes of tea and leather. Taste crests to a bite of piney hops, spiced with pepper, juiced with a squeeze of grapefruit, and flushed with booze that lingers through the finish. A mellow note of sweet caramel appears on the swallow.
Mouthfeel
Its feel has a smooth draw that becomes grainy on the backend. The body is nearly full with moderate carbonation. Its finish is dry, somewhat sticky, slightly astringent, and warms with alcohol.
Overall
Its appearance is solid but the aroma is nearly absent. Its feel is terrific with a booziness that’s nicely warming. But its the palate that’s the real star. So complex and flavorful. Its bitterness is harsh at first but once the ale begins to warm, all those flavors really come together. Thoroughly enjoyable and easier to drink than you’d expect. Considering its price point, the Olde GnarlyWine is an absolute steal. Buy two. One for now. Another for later.
Video About Olde GnarlyWine
Watch this humorous video below from Lagunitas for Barleywine knowledge and tasting notes:
