Beer Tasting: Firestone Walker 10th Anniversary

The Beer: Firestone Walker 10th Anniversary
Style: Oak-aged Strong Ale
Reviews: Beer Advocate Rate Beer
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Packaging & Date Stamping: 22oz. brown bottle in a commemorative cardboard box; Special tasting notes from Matt Brynildson included; 10/25/06 date stamp

From where & how stored: Purchased from BevMo in Walnut Creek, CA in Dec. '06, transported home via airplane, and stored at 52F since then

Pricing: $9.99 per bottle

Availability: One-time release

ABV, IBU, and Other Available Stats: 12% ABV; 50-60 IBU
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Bryan's Notes
The Look:
- dark cola-like color and consistency
- minimal head; very small tight bubbles
- a bit of oiliness on the walls

The Aroma:
- alcohol, licorice, oak (no doubt!), vanilla, brandy

The Taste:
- rich flavors upfront, alcohol in the middle, bitter finish
- lives up to expectations from the aroma; bitter cocoa too

The Verdict: This smooth and medium-bodied ale is quite enjoyable and drinkable now, but can only imagine how extremely well this will age for years to come. Definitely putting a few aside for future tastings. This could be a WOW! beer of 2006.
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Adam's Notes
The Look:
- mahogany with thin ring around top

The Aroma:
- figs
- peppery nose
- vanilla too
- alcohol in nose and on the palate

The Taste:
- chocolate
- sweet, but not overly
- nutty but not dry
- tiny bit oily
- bitter chocolate finish

The Verdict: It doesn't taste like 12%. This should be aged. One of the biggest warm easy drinking beers you'll ever have.