Barley Wine - Not to be Confused With Grape Beer!

Barley wines are so called because wine-like alcohol levels of 10-12% are common. Look for strong malt profiles, slightly sweet (because at high original gravities, yeast can't ferment all the sugars.), with flavors ranging from caramel to fruits (dates and figs and such) to ports, even. They can be cellared for years, increasing in complexity over time. When Americans grabbed this style from the English, they said, “Hey, I bet we can make these bigger!” And bigger they made them, upping the hops to put some bite next to the sweet. Need something to sip by the fire to take the edge off a cold night? Bring out the brandy snifter and strap in!