The term "barrel-aged" has long been synonymous with spirits like whiskey and wine. Very rarely it is associated with beer. But in truth, beer has been barrel-aged since the Middle Ages.
Given experiential nature of craft beer brewing, it is no surprise that barrel-aged beer made its way into the craft beer vocabulary again.
What is Barrel-Aged Beer?
In short, it means any beer that has been aged for a period of time in a wooden barrel, or in contact with wood. The intention of aging the beer this way is to impart the unique character of the wood and/or the flavour of what has previously been in the barrel.
How is Barrel-Aged Beer Made?
The process begins with a base beer, which can range from a robust stout to a tart saison. This base beer is then transferred into a wooden barrel. The type of barrel used is crucial and significantly impacts the final product.
Types of Barrels
American oak barrels, often previously used for bourbon, contribute vanilla, coconut, and caramel notes. These are some of the most commonly used barrels among brewers. French oak barrels, commonly used for wine, impart subtler spice and tannin. Previously used barrels are very popular as well, as the wood retains the flavors of the previous liquid. This is how brewers get wine, bourbon, rum, tequila, and other spirits infused into their beers.
Now, that the barrel is chosen, next is how long to age the beer.
Aging Time
The duration of aging varies greatly, from a few weeks to several years based on the desired outcome. The general rule of thumb is the longer the beer ages, the more pronounced the barrel character becomes. Resulting in a more complex brew.
So, what happens if you just leave a beer in a barrel for a long time? Well, there is such a thing as "over-aging". Brewers must carefully monitor the beer's development, as over-aging can lead to undesirable flavors.
What Happens During the Aging Process?
A process called micro-oxygenation happens as a results of the slow introduction of oxygen because of the porous nature of wooden barrels. This process is one of the key factors that allow barrel-aged beers to develop new flavours.
During the aging process, brewers can blend barrels. This is when the beer is transferred between different barrels throughout the aging process in order to create a complex flavours.
How is Barrel-Aged Beer Different from Other Beers?
Increased Complexity
Barrel-aged beers often exhibit a wider range of flavors and aromas compared to their non-barrel-aged counterparts. The interplay between the base beer, the wood, and the previous contents of the barrel creates layers of complexity that are truly one of a kind.
Higher Alcohol Content
The aging process can concentrate the alcohol content, resulting in beers with higher ABVs. Perfect if you're looking for a brew with a bit of kick!
Extended Shelf Life
The higher alcohol content and the presence of tannins can contribute to a longer shelf life, allowing these beers to age gracefully. Many barrel aged beers are meant to be aged for years in a cool dark place.
Exciting Innovations in Barrel-Aged Beer
Craft brewers are constantly pushing the boundaries of barrel-aged beer, exploring new and exciting techniques. Here are a few trends:
Sour Barrel-Aging
Brewers are using barrels to age sour beers, allowing wild yeast and bacteria to impart complex tart and funky flavors.
Fruit Infusion
Adding fruits like cherries, raspberries, or peaches during the aging process can create vibrant and refreshing barrel-aged beers.
Spice Additions
Spices like cinnamon, vanilla, and nutmeg are being used to enhance the existing barrel-aged flavors, creating warm and inviting beers.
Barrel-aged beer is a testament to the creativity and innovation of craft brewers. The process of aging beer in wooden barrels unlocks a world of complex flavors and aromas, creating a truly unique drinking experience.
Whether you're a seasoned beer enthusiast or a curious newcomer, exploring the world of barrel-aged beer is a journey worth taking.
From the rich and robust stouts aged in bourbon barrels to the tart and funky saisons aged in wine barrels, there's a barrel-aged beer for every palate.