Review: Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale
Besides horses and basket ball, Kentucky is well known for its bourbon. Bourbon has become so popular of late that rumors abound of a future shortage of the famous whiskey. You can blame “Mad Men” for the increased popularity of the drink, as well as a large increase in demand from overseas. Now, we have a craft beer that has been aged in bourbon-soaked casks for at least 4 years. Craft beer and bourbon: a match made in Kentucky.
I first had this beer in Kentucky a number of years ago. We were driving through and stopped in to see some family in Lexington and, since I am always on the lookout for beer I can’t find in Florida, I could not resist trying something from Alltech Lexington Brewing and Distilling Company. Only in the last 6 months has it made to Florida and I found my first 4 pack of the stuff this past weekend. It is on tap at a local eatery, Crafted Block and Brew, but this is the first time I have been able to purchase it and take it home.
This beer is not for people who are new to craft beers. You can try it, but at 8% ABV, this is a strong beer brewed in the English Strong Ale style and has a dark, reddish color. There is a hint of vanilla and oak, as well as bourbon at the back end, but it is definitely full and strong. This beer is a love it/hate it kind of beer, so if you have been drinking some other strong beers, give it a try; you will be glad you did.