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Though it is not actually a wine, an English Barley Wine is the
strongest ale style in alcohol content. Its high gravity lends a chewy-winey attribute
that is difficult to confuse with other styles. Although the deep shade of copper/bronze
is hard to resist, this beer is best aged for a full six months because the large amount
of malt employed will be buried beneath an overpowering alcohol bite until it gracefully
ages. Not quite overcoming the sweetness of the malt is a high hop rate, creating a full
bodied ale that is characterized by the estery and fruity flavors of the yeast. The
resulting carbonation is low but head retention is solid.
Don't be alarmed by the high bittering rate, when this is adaquately aged, it will be
extremely malty. If you can keep some of this beer around for 4-5 years, you will be
drinking one of the best beers you will ever taste.
In the style of: Fullers Golden Pride, Youngs Old Nick
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