Frontaal Brewing Co. Ridgeback B.A. (2024)

Name: Frontaal Brewing Co. Ridgeback B.A. (2024)
Brand: Beer
SKU: 6687c2b71603da4d212cc2ef
Availability: OutOfStock
Rating: 4.15 (21 reviews)

American Barleywine 10 º

Brouwerij Frontaal

Ridgeback B.A. (2024) presents a formidable sensory experience, bridging the aggressive hop profile of an American Barleywine with the nuanced elegance of multi-barrel aging. Bold aromas of citrusy hops and toasted caramel are enriched by the distinct influence of whiskey and orange brandy barrels, yielding notes of vanilla, charred oak, and bright orange zest. On the palate, a profound malty sweetness is countered by firm bitterness and the complex spirit character of French whiskey barrels. This full-bodied, velvety ale offers a luscious, warming finish where residual malt sugars and resinous hop oils dance with lingering boozy depth and spirit-forward complexity.

Appearance. Deep copper to mahogany with brilliant ruby highlights and visible legs. Topped with a moderately-low, persistent light tan head that leaves fine lacing.

Aroma. High intensity featuring a rich base of caramel and toasted bread. Assertive resinous and citrusy hop character is layered with complex barrel notes of vanilla, toasted oak, and a distinct orange peel ester from the brandy barrels. Alcohol is noticeable but smooth.

Taste. Initial impression of rich, malty sweetness reminiscent of caramel and honey. This is immediately met by aggressive hop bitterness and flavors of resin and citrus. The barrel-aging provides significant depth with notes of vanilla, charred wood, and orange oil. The finish is long and warming, balancing residual malt richness with wood-derived dryness.

Mouthfeel. Full-bodied and chewy with a velvety, viscous texture. Moderate carbonation provides a slight lift to the heavy body. Significant alcohol warmth is present but smooth and well-integrated, lacking any solvent-like harshness.

Sensory Profile.