Victory 'Old Horizontal' barleywine packs a punch
Evan Finkelstein
Issue date: 1/16/09 Section: Arts & Entertainment
In the back of my palate, at the end of every gulp, I was greeted by some hop friends, which only made me happier.
Strangely enough, it was also possible to identify the taste of the machinery used in brewing this beer.
However, it didn't bother me all too much since I knew it probably wasn't a consistent flavor - just a mistake on the specific batch produced.
Additionally, the 11 percent ABV was well hidden in taste, but decided to show up in the form of tipsiness. Hooray beer!
It also must be acknowledged that the mouth feel of this beer was fantastic. Each sip brought a warming sensation to my palate. When swirled around, the beer turned to a creamy fluff, which actually was very satisfying.
Overall, Old Horizontal was extremely enjoyable. I found myself wanting to pound this beer down - but I restricted myself so I could observe everything and properly evaluate the beer as it warmed up closer to room temperature. Although strong and maybe not for everyone, I'll be opening up towards this style and walking through a new doorway of beerdom.
Is there a beer that I need to know about? Want Suds-for-Thought to review it? Send your beer suggestions to entertainment@thetriangle.org with "SUDS" in the subject line.
Strangely enough, it was also possible to identify the taste of the machinery used in brewing this beer.
However, it didn't bother me all too much since I knew it probably wasn't a consistent flavor - just a mistake on the specific batch produced.
Additionally, the 11 percent ABV was well hidden in taste, but decided to show up in the form of tipsiness. Hooray beer!
It also must be acknowledged that the mouth feel of this beer was fantastic. Each sip brought a warming sensation to my palate. When swirled around, the beer turned to a creamy fluff, which actually was very satisfying.
Overall, Old Horizontal was extremely enjoyable. I found myself wanting to pound this beer down - but I restricted myself so I could observe everything and properly evaluate the beer as it warmed up closer to room temperature. Although strong and maybe not for everyone, I'll be opening up towards this style and walking through a new doorway of beerdom.
Is there a beer that I need to know about? Want Suds-for-Thought to review it? Send your beer suggestions to entertainment@thetriangle.org with "SUDS" in the subject line.
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