Reviewing the Smoke From The Oak (Wine Barrel Imperial Version) from Captain Lawrence Brewing Company. This is my first ever beer from Captain Lawrence, but I have heard good things about this brewery out of New York.Score: 90
Unknown vintage bottle (forgot to check the label!) served in a "The Bruery" brand tulip and enjoyed on 03/23/12.
Appearance: Deep brown, mostly opaque save for a strip of brown highlight atop the glass when held up to a light. Between the glasses poured at the table, it seems like there is a combined 2-3 fingers of creamy milk chocolate covered head at pour that quickly settles into a bubbly ring around the glass. Minimal lacing, poor retention. 3.5/5
Smell: Huge notes of smoke, oak, and hickory wood. There's some funky white grape, white wine acidity, a little roasted chocolate and a light vinegar aroma too. 4/5
Taste: Like the nose, there is lots of smoke on the palate. I am glad I capped the evening off with this beer, because it's a lingering palate wrecker! Tart white grape, oak and roasted chocolate. There is a "fatty meat" flavor on the palate entwined with the smokiness that others described as "pork-like." I do not detect any booziness whatsoever despite the 12% ABV. 4/5
Mouthfeel: Medium bodied, high carbonation. Oily/smooth mouthfeel. Smokey and sweet finish. 4/5
Overall: This beer struck a real nice contrasting balance between the heavier smokey flavors and the lighter white wine/tart grape flavors that left an interesting effect on the palate that can only be described as a "prickley sweetness." I still do not like sours, and this one has Brett intentionally added to it, but I thoroughly enjoyed this beer. This one is a true smoke bomb. I would definitely be interested in trying the other variations of this beer at some point in the future.
Recommendation: Fans of smoke beers and wine wine should seek this beer out. Be warned, however -- this one is heavy on the smoke!
Pairings: Barbequed chicken.
Cost: $12 for a 750 ml bottle.
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