Firestone Walker Velvet Merkin 2016

Tonight's Beer:
Firestone Walker Velvet Merkin 2016 Vintage Bourbon Barrel-Aged Oatmeal Stout
8.5% ABV

The 2016 Velvet Merkin is a really good beer. It is . . . velvety. And delicious. It's a jet-black beer with a bourbon-y smell. While the bourbon barrel aging comes through in the flavor, it's subtle. Many barrel-aged beers punch you in the mouth with the flavor (and with a through-the-roof ABV). I'll typically tolerate the intensity, as I like the bold flavors. But there's certainly something to be said for a smooth, easy-drinking ale like the Velvet Merkin.

This is definitely a good beer to close out Advent(ures) in Beer 2016. It's delicious:. rich and flavorful, but smooth and balanced. We'll be drinking this beer tonight with some apple pie, which is a pairing I'm looking forward to. It has all kinds of delicious flavors: chocolate, roasted, and of course bourbon. I may go back to BevMo and get a couple more bottles to add to my collection. Pulling this beer out of the (metaphorical) cellar after a few years would be a real treat.

Broad Categories:
U.S.
Great
Delicious
Stout
Barrel Aged
Amazing