This is an very good beer - perhaps excellent - that falls short of the greatness that precedes it. I had a lot of high hopes for this beer, and I would certainly drink it again, but I cannot imagine buying it when the other wood-aged beers in their line-up are so extraordinary, let alone those from other breweries.
Anderson Valley first gave us their Bourbon Barrel Stout, a rich stout aged in Wild Turkey bourbon barrels, followed by their seasonal Pinchy Jeek Barl, a malty pumpkin ale version of their first creation. Both beers are outstanding, their base brews more than suitable for wood aging. In comparison, their new Boont Barl is a merely adequate taste amongst such fine barrel-aged beers. I've always considered Boont one of my favorite amber ales, but it is simply not worthy of a barrel program. Barrel-aging doesn't bring Boont remotely close to its world class brethren, or any other similar beer. On its own, there is certainly a lot to love, but it sits low in a growing field of bourbon barrel creations. Try it for yourself, but have a bomber BBS or PJB on hand to ensure a glorious tasting session. Mildly recommended.
From the brewery:
"What began with our flagship Boont Amber Ale and a passion for experimentation has become a unique addition to our Anderson Valley Wild Turkey Barl Series. The six month aging process in third-use Wild Turkey Bourbon barrels imparts flavors of coconut and vanilla and subtle bourbon aromas that are enhanced by a noticeable oak character in the finish. A great accompaniment to fine meals or to be enjoyed on its own, Boont Barl is a truly sessionable barrel-aged beer with finesse."
[source: avbc.com]
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