11/28/2023
We’re finally getting to taste one of the coolest industry experiences we’ve ever been a part of.
Shortly after this year’s Firestone Walker Invitational, we were invited back to Paso for the yearly anniversary blend, an iconic project for an iconic brewery. Each summer, local winemakers, industry professionals, and friends of are brought to the Paso location to take part in arguably the most diplomatic, involving barrel blending program that we know of. And every once in a while, they let the media in too 😉
So hit the road and took that trip to Paso to sit down with Matt Brynildson and company and get an exclusive look at the process. We won’t go into all the details again (you can check out our OG post for that!) but to summarize; after multiple rounds of meticulously blending through various Firestone Walker Barrel Beers, and one short voting process later, a blend was selected to be scaled up to production size.
And now, we get to enjoy the fruits of our labor after a generous shipment from . Like previous years, Anniversary Ale XXVII is a methodical behemoth of an undertaking in a tiny 12oz package. At 12.5%, this is a thoughtful sipper that immediately releases aromas of gingersnaps, toffee, bakers chocolate, and fine, fine bourbon. Delving a few sips further, it’s clear that barleywine character rises above other notes, though doesn’t pilfer ever present characters of dark chocolate and espresso, nor the luscious (presumably stout-derived) texture and mouthfeel.
Could we have waited to open this for at least a few days upon receipt? Sure.
But that’s why we have more than one bottle 🍻
Thanks again to Firestone for providing an incredibly unique experience - and the even more rewarding followthrough!
And of course, there’s a picture of a cat with beer. Enjoy.
