Old Dipsea

A huge, fruity, caramel-driven, alcohol-fueled beast of a beer, Old Dipsea is not a tipple for the faint of heart. A deep, dark amber – almost mahogany – the color of this beer speaks of the brewer’s fondness for caramel malts. Redolent of figs, black cherries, plums, citrus fruit, and lots of alcohol, this beer’s intense aroma leaves no doubt that this is a beast of a barleywine. While the hops take a back seat to the malt and fruity esters, they are there, lurking in the background. Lee liked the piney, almost resin-like hop aromas, and Tom commented on a distinct minty character in the nose. Expresses a luscious caramel sweetness and carries the complex fruitiness of the aroma into the flavor. Red currant, pineapple, and sweet orange flavors are balanced by solid hop bitterness, though the beer does finish somewhat on the sweet side. An engaging sherry underpinning floats just beneath the bold fruit flavors and lends a soothing alcohol warmth. Pete appreciated the clean caramel and toffee-like malt flavors, while Rick commented on an almost brandy-like alcohol character. This is a beer to be savored, perfect for a cool fall evening. Marin Brewing has another winner on their hands with this year’s vintage.