I took a sample off the Barrel last week, I'm still waiting for the pellical (sp) to fall. I have had the barrel at a constant 68ºF so I guess that is slowing things down a bit. good for me because I've been in a holding pattern for brewing the last couple months.
Flavor wise, I'm happy to say there is little to no acidic acid, but sadly also there is little to no lactic acid coming through. The funk though is right there but not over powering,and balancing for how dry the beer is for being around 9%ABV. I think blending this beer with a little bit of newer beer and sour cherry will brighten it up a bit and bring it a little closer to the Cuvee.
The brandy from the barrel did not come through, as was mentioned earlier in the thread. This barrel was more of a neutral barrel, but the oak and tannins are coming through, but don't over power the beer.
Over all I'd say its an interesting beer right now, but needs some more time. I will have a keg or two of it at NHC, so you guys can try it then and tell me what you think. And for those who make it up to camp Everest (my house) we can pop a bottle of the real deal and do a little side by side comparison.
Flavor wise, I'm happy to say there is little to no acidic acid, but sadly also there is little to no lactic acid coming through. The funk though is right there but not over powering,and balancing for how dry the beer is for being around 9%ABV. I think blending this beer with a little bit of newer beer and sour cherry will brighten it up a bit and bring it a little closer to the Cuvee.
The brandy from the barrel did not come through, as was mentioned earlier in the thread. This barrel was more of a neutral barrel, but the oak and tannins are coming through, but don't over power the beer.
Over all I'd say its an interesting beer right now, but needs some more time. I will have a keg or two of it at NHC, so you guys can try it then and tell me what you think. And for those who make it up to camp Everest (my house) we can pop a bottle of the real deal and do a little side by side comparison.