Empyrean Big Old Red Ale (Aged in Brandy Barrels)

Brilliant! Bottling the Carpe Brewem limited addition ales was a stroke of genius. Big Old Red pours a frothy (I mean frothy, dude) ruby tinged amber with a gigantic head. Very sweet, with black cherry and apricot predominating, with perhaps a little fig and caramel. This brew was aged in brandy barrels, so the alcohol heat from the 8% ABV combines with the brandy notes to provide a smooth, yet smoky finish. There's a 44 IBU hop hit in the mix as well, tarting things up, while being nicely balanced. It reminds me in some respects of a Belgian Dubbel. Carbonation is very high, the beer spilled over even after setting quietly in the fridge for several hours. Overall a good choice for a nightcap!