Our bourbon barrel-aged barley wine has long been our most sought-after beer, capturing the hearts of connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike. Its rich caramel notes, velvety texture, and robust depth were the very embodiment of our craft, and every year we look forward to its release with pride.Â
In late 2021, we released Paragon 2020 which had spent 18 months in barrels and was every bit as special as its predecessors. However, months later we discovered that pediococcus had propagated throughout the entire batch. With heavy hearts but unwavering determination, we made the only choice a true craft brewery could make – to recall our masterpiece, explain what had happened, and vow to learn and become better as a result of the experience. We all felt the disappointment, yet we knew we did the right thing.Â
However, in the spirit of never wasting a crisis, we chose not to discard the beer, but rather to see how it evolved over time. Thus, Paradox was born – a sour barrel-aged barley wine. Its an homage to the unexpected journey this brew had taken, and a celebration of 20 years of our dedication to beer.Â
The complex flavours have further matured through time and while still every bit the bourbon-, vanilla-, coconut- and caramel-forward barley wine, the acidity from pediococcus has enhanced the fruit characteristics and reveal tart cherries and prunes.Â
Paradox – a sour barrel-aged barley wine that reflects not just the artistry of our craft but the soul of our brewery. From Paragon to Paradox, we raise our glasses to 20 years of excellence, and to the adventures that lie ahead. Cheers!Â
Do enjoy this: You must have a like for mouth puckering sourness / sweetness together with all the barrel aged flavors of bourbon, char, leather, vanilla, coconut and the malty flavors of roast, chocolate and toffee. It’s a real rideÂ