Vermilion Winter Ale (2013) - Perennial Artisan Ales - St. Louis, Missouri

English Barleywine-style Ale 10.5% ABV - This 2013 vintage was brewed to be cellared. The bottle actually recommends it and time did not harm this beer. This medium bodied beer pours a dark burgundy color with a quickly diminishing head. There is a strong alcohol presence in both the nose and the initial flavor. Molasses leads the charge followed by licorice, fig, raisin, dark malts and some spice. True to it's style, the hops are subdued.