Barrel aged
Reviews
WexiLahti
@ Beerdome3 years ago
4.5
Solidarity beer #9 πΊπ¦ These "Midnight Velvets" come in several variations, this sample is Heaven Hill barrel aged.
Muddy, black beer with timid carbonation unleashes a moderate, fawn lace ring that refuses to even spread all over the surface but rather shies away to the sidelines.
Bourbon plays its fearless tricks in the scent. Vanilla is not too shy but not arrogant either. Dark plum is observable and is discreetly accompanied by a suggestion of dark chocolate, caramel and soaked oak barrel.
The taste is intensive and soft. Even velvety, just like the name suggests. Bourbon is enormous, not particularly fruity, rather like the real thing. Could there be some rye in it? It's also extraordinarily oaky. Years-long soaking comes through determinedly. Toffee, butterscotch, vanilla, caramel and a hint of dark chocolate follow right on its footprints, toffee obviously leads the gang. Alcohol shouts out loud and clear but astonishingly gently. Doesn't give mercy. Not that I'm asking for it.
The body is robust, bigger than "just full". Not huge though, despite 14.5 %. Still gorgeous. The finish punches right against my face with overwhelming Bourbon. Aged oak barrel is copious while vanilla, caramel and dark plum spy its successful journey in a distance. The diversity of flavors reduces in the finish compared to upfront but remains still adorable. Black velvet and that aftertaste's smile, black velvet with that slow southern style.
The mouthfeel is strong, intense, full, barrel aged and alcoholic in an appealing way. It's a tad layered, not actually complex, nevertheless absolutely deep, rich and beautifully warming. Warming indeed! And like I said earlier, this is much softer than I anticipate. Lip-glueing, as well, but not sticky Lovely piece! π€π€π€