Highwater Brewing 'Whiskey Thief.' Tributary Series. 9.2% abv. Copper color. Thin white head that falls to a sustaining ring. Low retention. Good lacing. Nose of grain, faint spice, slightly sweet malt. Whiskey aroma appears once the temp drops. Front taste of smoke, malt, whiskey background. Aftertaste of whiskey, smoked grain, herbal. Medium-full body. Mouthfeel is hot, astringent.
This is an excellent beer. The whiskey flavor profile is clear and present, especially once the temp drops. The smoke flavor is not overpowering but rather an accent on the beer. Highly recommended.
This is a collaboration brew, crafted by Highwater Brewing, Pine Street Brewery, Uncommon Beers, and Bison Brewing.
EDIT: One of our readers, Andrew S., requested the name of the pub where I enjoyed Whiskey Thief. He had spoken with brewers at Highwater, who were also curious. I can tell you that this lovely beer was on tap at Peeve's Public House in Downtown Fresno, one of my regularly haunts.
From the brewery:
"This year’s collaboration included Bison Brewing, High Water Brewing, Pine Street Brewery and Uncommon Brewers (the host brewery).... Inspired by their second favorite beverage–whiskey–the motley crew of (oddly enough) beardless brewers decided to brew a super boozy and viscously smokey Strong Scotch Ale. Aptly named the Whiskey Thief, the beer was brewed with a blend of specialty malts, beechwood and peat-smoked malts, housemade candy sugar and “dry-hopped” with heather. Whiskey Thief fills the nose with soft hints of smoke, toffee, roasted nuts and dried flowers. Once you get a sip, KAPOW!!! Rich flavors of caramel and toffee bombard the tongue––slowly breaking away to reveal a deep layer of smokey, peaty goodness. If whiskey and beer had a baby, this would be it."
[source: craftbeer.com]
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