What is an old fashioned beer?

Answered by Randy McIntyre

An old fashioned beer, huh? Well, let me tell you, it’s a classic cocktail and a satisfying beer all rolled into one. Picture this: a rich, caramel malt base with fruity and herbal notes, aged in bourbon barrels with aromatic bitters. Sounds pretty amazing, doesn’t it?

Now, let’s break it down. First off, you’ve got the base beer. It’s made with a combination of malts that give it a deep, caramel flavor. This maltiness is balanced out by the addition of hops, which bring a subtle bitterness to the beer. The result is a rich and complex flavor profile that forms the foundation of the old fashioned beer.

But we’re not done yet. To really make this beer stand out, fresh cherry puree is added towards the end of fermentation. This gives the beer a fruity twist and adds a touch of sweetness. The cherries also contribute to the beer’s deep, ruby red color, which is a real feast for the eyes.

But what really sets this beer apart is its aging process. After the cherries have been added, the beer is transferred to bourbon barrels. These barrels impart their own unique flavors to the beer, including hints of vanilla, caramel, and oak. It’s like sipping on a smooth, aged bourbon, but in beer form.

To top it all off, the beer is aged in these bourbon barrels with aromatic bitters. These bitters add a layer of complexity and depth to the beer, balancing out the sweetness of the cherries and the richness of the bourbon flavors. The result is a beer that is both satisfying and sophisticated.

Now, I have to admit, this beer may not be for everyone. It’s got a lot going on, with its mix of rich malts, fruity cherries, and bourbon barrel aging. But for those who appreciate a complex and flavorful beer, it’s a real treat.

I remember the first time I tried an old fashioned beer. It was at a local craft beer festival, and I was immediately intrigued by its description. The combination of cherries, bourbon, and bitters sounded too good to pass up. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint.

As I took my first sip, I was hit with a wave of flavors. The caramel maltiness of the beer was balanced perfectly with the fruity sweetness of the cherries. And the bourbon barrel aging added a richness and complexity that made each sip feel like a luxurious indulgence. It was like drinking a cocktail and a beer all at once, and I couldn’t get enough.

Since that first taste, I’ve sought out old fashioned beers whenever I can. They’re not always easy to find, as they tend to be specialty brews or limited releases. But when I do come across one, I savor every sip and enjoy the layers of flavor that unfold with each drink.

So, if you’re looking for a beer that’s a little different, a little daring, and a whole lot delicious, give an old fashioned beer a try. It’s a classic cocktail and a satisfying beer all in one glass, and it’s sure to leave you wanting more. Cheers!