Bristol Brewing – A Holiday Goody

Barley Wine is one of those of styles that really gets our blood pumping. Maybe it’s the heavenly, rich malts and dried fruit complexity in the nose that does it to us. For some, it might have to do with the centuries-old reputation that barley wines have as being the highest quality, most celebratory style in the brewer’s repertoire.

Others (we’ll be honest since we’re among friends) get pretty excited over the 12% ABV that the style often boasts. One thing we always agree on though, is that our Old #23 Barley Wine is not only an outstanding example of an excellent style, it’s also a poignant and touching reminder of two fantastic guys: Ralph and Chandler Bruning who both brewed for us and both raced in the Pikes Peak Hill Climb with the iconic #23 that graces the label.

This year’s batch of Old #23 is almost ready — we’ll be bottling it in just a day or two, and we’re giddy with anticipation. (Well, the Beerocrat is giddy — the brew house guys are maintaining a rather more dignified expression of their excitement.) At any rate, we’d like to invite you to come down and join the Bristol family in this once-a-year tradition to savor the dulcet, brandy-like tones, reconnect with old friends and raise a glass in celebration of those who can no longer be with us. We’ll release the 2008 vintage at 5:00 pm on this Friday, November 21, just in time to stock up for the holidays. Blue Sage Catering will be providing snacks designed especially to soak up those extra ABVs. We hope you can make it.

Cheers,
Laura
The Bristol Beerocrat