Note: This report was contributed by Barry, the resident beer-lover (using the editorial “we”).
Last week, we had the opportunity to attend the first tasting of the newest product from Guinness Open Gate Brewery & Barrel House in Baltimore, Guinness Stout Aged In Bulleit Bourbon Barrels. This was a press event at the brewery’s Barrel Room, and featured generous pours of the product, and tasty food pairings to go with it.
Guinness Stout Aged In Bulleit Bourbon Barrels (Picture Courtesy Guinness)
The new beer is brewed in Ireland, transported to the USA, and then aged in barrels furnished by Bulleit Bourbon, Guinness’ sister company, for six months. The result is a very pleasing, somewhat softened version of the iconic stout.
The company’s literature reads like a wine report, describing aroma, taste, and mouth feel, which this beer drinker found it difficult to take entirely seriously. The 10% alcohol rating, however, is totally in earnest. Enjoy this beer judiciously, or, (even better), have a designated driver along.
Food Pairings
The food pairings, also a new concept to us when related to beer, were nonetheless very well prepared and delicious, and did indeed seem to go well with the product. They included Bruleed Mission Fig with Goat Cheese, Braised Short Rib with Thai Cherry Glaze, Maple Roasted Spaghetti Squash with Crispy Pancetta, and Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta. Tasty indeed!
The Barrel Room
And an addendum from Judy:
Since Barry’s visit, I have had the opportunity to taste the new stout. I concur with his opinion. The notes of vanilla and oak contributed a complexity to the taste profile, and the aging seemed to smooth it out on the palate. The hoppy bitterness which I object to in beer was noticeable but tolerable. It did not interfere with my enjoyment at all – I’d willingly drink it again!
Guinness Stout Aged In Bulleit Bourbon Barrels will be available for a limited time nationally, beginning in November 2018.
