Deschutes Mirror Mirror

From Deschutes – The Reserve Series romance all began with our first release of this limited-edition brew. Mirror Mirror, born of a double batch of Mirror Pond Pale Ale, is an inspired, barrel-aged barley wine layered with intriguing nuances. Explore this latest incarnation and enjoy its delicious complexity in every sip.

Deschutes Brewery – Deschutes Mirror Mirror Vintage 2009 enjoyed July 2010 – 22 oz. bottle poured into a goblet. 11% abv.

Appearance: Pours a dark auburn with a creamy cap of beige head.

Aroma: Ripe fruit, perhaps apricots, plums, chocolate, herbal hops, brown sugar. As it warms up, the oak barrel pops out at you.

Taste: Spicy caramel and dark chocolate notes, dried dark fruit, big sturdy bitter hops.  While incredibly bold, it isn’t all that boozy. Leaves an oaky aftertaste you don’t get til you put your glass down for a few seconds.

Mouthfeel: Coating, medium bodied, a tad creamy, with moderate carbonation.

Overall: I really enjoyable barleywine. Not too sweet, not hot, above average barleywine.