Menno Olivier Brewing SERENDIPITY

Name: Menno Olivier Brewing SERENDIPITY
Brand: Beer
SKU: 6844e12372e44c00a7025eeb
Availability: OutOfStock
Rating: 4.25 (51 reviews)

Strong Ale 16.5 º 30 IBU

Menno Olivier Brewing

Serendipity is an opulent, high-gravity British Strong Ale transformed by extended maturation in Ginja barrels. The sensory experience is dominated by the infusion of Portuguese sour cherries, offering a deep, vinous layer of tart fruit against a decadent base of toffee and caramel malts. At a potent 16.5% ABV, the beer delivers an intense, spirituous warmth reminiscent of fortified wine. Aromas of dark plum, raisin, and vanilla-laced oak precede a palate rich with nutty malt complexity and a lingering, cherry-liqueur finish. It is a viscous, slow-sipping ale where wood tannins and bright acidity from the Ginja berries provide a sophisticated counterpoint to its profound malty sweetness.

Appearance. Deep mahogany to dark reddish-brown (SRM 20-25). Clarity is generally clear, though the depth of color makes it appear nearly opaque. Head is thin, light tan, with low retention and minimal lacing due to the extreme alcohol content.

Aroma. High intensity. Complex aromatic profile featuring rich caramel and toffee malts. Significant presence of sour cherry and aguardente spirits from the barrel aging. Elevated fruity esters of dried fig, prune, and dark plum. Moderate oaky notes of vanilla and toasted wood. Alcohol is prominent and spirit-like but well-integrated.

Taste. Initial impression is thick and malty-sweet, followed quickly by tart cherry and spiritous wood. Malt flavors of toasted nuts and deep caramel are pervasive. Fruity esters provide dark fruit depth, while the Ginja barrel aging adds a unique cherry liqueur complexity. Bitterness is moderate but largely masked by residual sugar and barrel tannins. The finish is long, sweet, and intensely warming.

Mouthfeel. Full, viscous, and chewy body. Low carbonation enhances the velvet-like, heavy texture. Significant alcohol warmth is present, reflecting the 16.5% ABV, yet it remains smooth rather than solventy. Minimal astringency from wood tannins.

Sensory Profile.