Founders Brewing Company
Backwoods Bastard (2014) - Bourbon Barrel Wee Heavy Ale
The color of this brew is a lovely chestnut with hints of red lurking in the background. The barely transparent beer pours with a tiny head that goes away quickly to leave just a light tan ring around the edge of the glass. It's a wonderful color, this beer has an alluring look to it that is simple and pleasant.
The aroma of this beer is just what you hoped it would be. There is a sweetness to it that is similar to candied sugar. There is also a rich maltiness, and of course alcohol. The alcohol scent is pronounced but not in your face, it is what you would hope an ale aged in bourbon barrels would be.
On the palate this wee heavy has a smooth carbonation that gives way to a heavier, almost chewy beer. The brew has notes of caramel, roasted malt, and vanilla. The vanilla is nicely done and compliments the beer very well, which of course makes sense, vanilla and bourbon go very well together. The beer finishes with a nice little bite to help balance out the sweetness of this beer. This beer also leaves a fantastic, gentle warming sensation on the back of your throat.
Overall this beer delivers what you would hope for from a barrel aged wee heavy. The look is very nice with the hints of red, the aroma delivers an alcohol, sweet and roasted scent, and on the palate this beer is plainly put solid. I give this beer a 4 out of 5. Nice beer to store in the fridge and have every once in a while.
