Judge's Review: 91 Rating - Gin Joy Ale by Right Brain Brewery

Gin Joy Ale by Right Brain Brewery is a vanilla cream ale that's been aged in a gin barrel. I'm judging this as a 33b-Specialty Wood-Aged Beer. In the glass, it's a very clear pale gold with a persistent white head. The nose is immediately gin botanicals. Very floral and pleasant, with a citrus edge to it. Light green apple notes as well and clean. It's interesting as it comes off almost saison-like. Minimal vanilla or malt character; this is about the barrel. Light woody notes as well. On tasting, the beer almost gets a soapy edge but is reined back in. Lavender and lemon come together. The vanilla is buried under the barrel, but that's okay by me! The underlying cream ale is very pleasant and works well to support the barrel overall. Crisp and clean with light woody notes and juniper and ginger in the finish. Light body and refreshing with medium + carbonation. Really a very fun beer and executed quite well. Cheers!