Elysian Cyclops Barleywine

Brewed by Elysian Brewing Co.
Style: Barley Wine
Seattle, Washington USA

Serve in Snifter

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I was quite unimpressed with this compared to most b-wines, but must applaud the effort. Rich sweet aroma, lacks balance and complexity.

For me, this was a bizarre experience. I had this beer years ago when I lived in Seattle and I went to Elysian to see Micro Mini- it is remarkable that I have remembered both the beer and the band for all this time.

Taking a gamble on an unknown quantity for my 300th: Bright copper color with moderate head (quite good for a high ABV brew) and clingy lace---most attractive...Aroma is of rich caramel, like that for dipping apples...Caramel theme carries over to flavor---sweet like a caramel sucker (with some bite!)...Hops come on the scene after the initial sweet wave subsides and stick around through and past the slightly tangy molasses finish...The body is full, smooth, but lacking texture...This is quite flavorful stuff, but lacks the layering and complexity of the better barley wines...Still, this is very rich and tasty, pleasingly warming, and if you happen to have an apple on hand that needs dipping...

Orange with a slight amber tinge, a crisp head, and brisk carbonation. This beer was quite an unbalanced barleywine with the malty (crystal?) sweetness cloying and the alcohol left unmasked.