Year of New Beer: Wild Red Ale Aged in Whiskey Barrels, Country Boy Brewing (Lexington)

Written By: Dion on 02/02/2016

From 4 kettles to 4 years. Hard to believe what has happened down on Chair Avenue during the last 4 years. It seems like practically no time has elapsed since I would stop by almost weekly to see how the brewery build was progressing. And yet it seems like forever ago. Some great beer has come from those 4 kettles and the subsequent expansions, and this first of two special 4th Anniversary bottles is no exception. Asleep in oak barrels for two years, this is a finished product that is like no other bottle Country Boy has done to this point. This red ale has seen the additions of wild yeast and bacteria, culminating in a delicious, complex brew. The nose is at first sharp, loaded with tart plums and essence of cherries. Hints of sour grape and crabapple sit against a richer raisin and caramel tone. On the tongue comes an acidic bite that stops short of puckering the mouth, instead highlighting fruity layers and allowing the supporting flavors to develop. It is with warmth that this beer really begins to shine. A subtle, earthy oak presents a slightly smoked note that blends nicely with traces of burnt caramel and bread crusts, while the tartness continues to pull gently at your taste buds. The alcohol is virtually imperceptible, making this drink deceptively easy. I love the kick the barrel typically provides in Country Boy beers, but this stands in stark contrast to those as the barrel character offers an understated elegance as opposed to in-your-face heat. I like where the Boys are headed. Many thanks to the guys for continuing to allow me to preview these bottles. I am humbled and grateful. This one goes on sale at noon on Saturday down at the taproom. Stay tuned for my take on Sunday's special bottle coming later this week.