Marshall Wharf Cant Dog Imperial Pale Ale (Barrel Aged)

UPDATED: DEC 27, 2011 Bottled on 12/31/10 Purchased @ Marshall Wharf brewery, Belfast ME Price - $20/bomber Had this on tap as well as at the 4th Year of Beer & Pemaquid Mussel Fest. A mix of several blends starting with Can’t Dog ale brewed on 9/26/08, put in a 12 year bourbon barrel on 10/10/08, pulled on 12/2/10 then blended with beer brewed on 11/24/10. 80% ale 20% Ale aged in bourbon barrels Pours a beautiful see through amber with a fine creamy white head. Several lines of bubbles stream from the bottom and support the ring outlining the glass. The clarity is amazing with polka dotted lacing. The smell is sweet with orange, caramel and citrus hops. A pleasent aroma of vanilla oak provides the backdrop without overwhelming the nose. The taste is sweet from the start with grapefruit, orange and caramel malt followed by vanilla and pine hops. It does get a bit boozey in the end, especially for the style. The mouthfeel is near perfectly balanced with all the flavors, malts and hops. The body is medium and slightly sticky. Carbonation is a little light but not flat. A nice bitterness finishes things off along with a light dry feel. Overall a damn good offering but reminds me more of an Imperial IPA. A bit pricey too.