Round Barn Brewery- Oak-Aged IPA: Uniquely Interesting
Friday, March 25, 2011 at 5:12PM | by Jason 
When I think of Craft Breweries, I usually think of a place that produces Craft Beer. In this instance, we have a company that is not only a Craft Brewery but is also a Winery and Distillery. Can you say triple threat? According to their website, the Baroda, MI based, Round Barn Brewery has 30 years of brewing history. This is another one of those brews I picked up last weekend while I was in Michigan and again this was another brew that was part of my mixed six pack. I grabbed a few of The Round Barn Brewery’s brews but this one I was excited about because I’ve never seen a straight up oak aged IPA. At least not one that stands out enough that I remember it. After a trip to the fridge with my trusty Beer Stick in hand, Oak-Aged IPA is poured and ready.
Round Barn Brewery classifies this brew as an India Pale Ale and their website briefly describes Oak-Aged IPA as, “Our version of an American Pale Ale. First taste of this IPA and you immediately pick up light oak and hop bitterness which gives this beer a nice balanced finish. Oak IPA pairs well with spicy foods or a nice seafood dish.” The label goes on to read, “Our Oak-Aged IPA is a version of an India Pale Ale with an Oak twist. Bronze in color, your first taste will immediately pick up hints of oak and hop bitterness that gives our IPA a perfect balanced finish. Enjoy with friends and in good health.”
Oak-Aged IPA pours a light golden color with a ½ white head. The aroma is a potpourri of citrus, oak, fruit and sweet malts.
I have to say that this may be one of the most interesting Craft Brews I have ever tasted. The aroma is overwhelmingly oak and seems to mute the hops but you can still detect the hops and other characteristics of the smell. The flavor is even more of a mystery. I get a huge oak presence but at the same time I get the faintest hint of bourbon. There is a malty sweetness that is pleasantly balanced by the citrusy hops and all in all completely unique when all attributes are factored in. I’m rather speechless at this point because I really like this brew but I can’t put into words exactly why. It’s like seeing an untraditionally beautiful woman that wouldn’t necessarily fall into that “hot” category but at the same time you can’t stop looking at her and be stunned by her beauty. Oak-Aged IPA from Round Barn Brewery is that rare brew that you can’t explain but you must try because once you do, you’ll understand.
ABV: 6.9%
Consumed: Mother Earth Globe Glass
Verdict: Buy A Twelve Pack (or two)
