Southern Tier Back Burner

Before 2 weeks ago, I had never tried a barleywine. Now, I think I'm hooked. The great thing with the two American Barleywines I have had so far, is that they are the perfect combination of bitter and sweet. Usually those super high ABV beers are overly bitter/hoppy and you can really only have one (think Hopslam).

Southern Tier Back Burner was very similar to the Cincinnati Collaboration beer week ale. I think it had a bit more bite, but that probably had to do with it not being 6 weeks old. I think what made this beer so session-able was it's great balance. From what I perceive, most Barleywine style beers are over the top and aggressive with the hops. The focus on the creamy, sweet malt and hop balance really makes this winter seasonal a must try!

Happy Drinking!

Who: Cathy
Where:Virgil's Cafe
Price: $$
Score: 5 / 5

Southern Tier Harvest Ale

Harvest Ale

Southern Tier's Fall Seasonal Ale.

Thad picked this up for a party this weekend since we both hadn't tried it yet. I wasn't all that impressed but I won't complain all that much since I was able to try it for free.

Nice yellow/orange color with an earthy smell. It wasn't a very pleasing fall ale to taste though. The beer is a little on the earthy and citrusy side, which I normally like, but for some reason just wasn't doing it for me this past weekend. I would like to give it another try, but for a fall seasonal not high on my list.

I have liked the other Southern Tier brews that I have tried, so I will most likely try this one again. Compared to the Lefthand I had this weekend, it didn't land on it's feet.

Who: Thad
Where: Cleveland
Price: Free
Score: 3 / 5

Happy Drinking!