A perfect tipple for the dead of winter, Dock Street’s Barley Wine is the local brewer’s first foray into bottled beer. Produced and packaged on-site, this limited release is a complex burst of malty goodness.
Barley wine is a style of strong ale that originated in England around the turn of the 20th century. The name is something of a misnomer inspired by the high alcohol content (around ten percent)—brewed from grains, it’s most definitely a beer.
This specific take on the genre was tempered for 10 months in oak barrels that had previously been used to age pinot noir at Chaddsford Winery. That leads to a slightly fruity nose. But the brew itself has a pleasant bitterness and a mellow, malty finish. The high alcohol content had the whole Grid office feeling warm and fuzzy inside—and wishing we were relaxing in front of a roaring fire somewhere. ■
Available at Dock Street Brewery and Restaurant, 701 South 50th St., 215-726-2337 and Grey Lodge Pub, 6235 Frankford Ave., 215-825-5357.
