2 Ratings

Varvar Brew Highland Meadows

Name: Varvar Brew Highland Meadows
Brand: Beer
SKU: 6474ce6f1603daa37e931f2a
Availability: OutOfStock
Rating: 3.5 (2 reviews)

Barleywine 11 º 57 IBU

Varvar Brew
Ципа - Tsypa Brewery

Highland Meadows is a lavishly complex English Barley Wine, showcasing over a year of oak maturation and regional Carpathian influence. The initial sensory impact is a rich tapestry of deep-toffee and biscuit-like malts, elevated by the distinct aromatic lift of herbal honey. Delicate wisps of wood smoke from the smoked malt intertwine with the concentrated dark fruit notes of prunes and raisins. On the palate, its 11% ABV provides a plush, velvety warmth that never burns, while the prolonged contact with oak introduces subtle tannins and vanillins. This is a profound, slow-sipping ale where honeyed sweetness and smoky depth create a unique mountain-inspired profile.

Appearance. Deep mahogany to dark copper with ruby highlights (18–22 SRM). Pours with a thin, off-white head that shows low retention but leaves oily legs on the glass, indicating high viscosity. Brilliant clarity despite the high strength and age.

Aroma. High intensity and deeply layered. Prominent bready and biscuit malt aromas are layered with rich herbal honey and significant dark fruit esters, specifically prunes and figs. A soft, clean wood smoke note is present, complemented by subtle oaky vanillin and a hint of aged sherry. Hop aroma is very low, masked by malt and specialty ingredients.

Taste. Initial impression is intensely malty and sweet, featuring flavors of dark caramel, honey, and toasted biscuits. The mid-palate introduces a complex interplay of dried prunes and a gentle, savory smokiness. Hop bitterness is moderate-low, providing just enough balance to the honeyed sweetness without being assertive. The finish is long and warming with a lingering vinous quality, showing well-integrated alcohol and light oak tannins.

Mouthfeel. Full-bodied and exceptionally chewy with a luscious, velvety texture. Carbonation is low, enhancing the sipper's weight and perceived viscosity. Significant alcohol warmth is present but smooth and rounded, never harsh. Minimal tannic astringency from the oak barrel adds structure.

Sensory Profile.