Beer Pick of the Week - The Answer

Whiskey Barrel-Aged “Quinte55ence”
5 Seasons Brewing Company
Alpharetta, GA
Approx. 13% ABV

Aged in empty Woodford Reserve oak barrels for 5.5 weeks, and cellared for over year, this self-styled Belgian “quintuple” is a revelation, and one of the best beers I have ever had the pleasure of drinking. Arriving at the table in a 750-ml bottle with a cork-and-cage closure like a fine champagne, a small amount of the dark, barely-carbonated liquid is poured into brandy snifters. The aroma is a heady vapor of port and alcohol, along with smoky malts. Up front is the taste of port, raisin, dark rum, and spice (clove, anise), followed by woody, oaky notes, and finishing with herbal hops, a mild coffee bitterness, and drying alcohol. The luscious, vinous mouthfeel and medium body contribute to its remarkable drinkability. Although lacking a formal style, it seems closest to a barleywine to me. The Answer is rather expensive to acquire at $26 per bottle, but one would not hesitate to pay that for a mediocre bottle of wine in a restaurant. A one-of-a-kind, limited edition beer that is a must for any beer geek in the Atlanta area.