Bourbon Barrel-Aged Old Godfather is Speakeasy’s Old Godfather barleywine that has been aged in High West bourbon barrels for 1–2 years. It is then blended with 50% fresh barleywine, which results in a fantastic beer.

Date Reviewed. January 19, 2016

Serving Size. 4oz

Aroma. Bourbon, sour mash, pecan pie drizzled with chocolate sauce, a touch of candied citrus peel, prices, raisins, hints of floral notes, toffee, molasses, cola, oak.

Appearance. Dark brown, oak, not quite opaque, tan head with low retention, not cloudy.

Flavor. Very sweet, malt forward, with a peppery bitterness. The bitterness does not seem as strong as 85 IBU but it helps balance the extreme sweetness of the beer.

Mouthfeel. Full bodied, astringent, a little boozy. Velvety, creamy. Low carbonation.

Overall. BBA Old Godfather is a very well crafted barrel-aged barleywine. The vanilla, Bourbon, and pecan flavors from the barrel are not overwhelming and actually enhance the malty, sweet qualities of an English-style barleywine. The hops add a nice amount of spicy bitterness and jus a touch of candied citrus peel.

Rating

Aroma (25%): ███
Appearance (5%): ███
Flavor (40%): ███
Mouthfeel (10%): ███
Overall (20%): ███
Total: ███

Beer Stats

Brewery: Speakeasy
Style: Barrle-Aged Barleywine
ABV: 9.5%
IBU: 85