Dragon's Milk Crimson Keep by New Holland Brewing Co. is a Bourbon Barrel-Aged Strong Red Ale and is being evaluated as a Specialty Wood-Aged Beer (category 33B from the 2021 BJCP Beer Style Guidelines). Specialty Wood-Aged Beers are aged in spirit barrels and should have a harmonious blend between the barrel characters (typically vanilla and toasted oak), the barrel spirits and the base style. American Strong Ales (category 22B in the 2021 BJCP Beer Style Guidelines) are strong beers that fill the gap between the American Barleywines and IPA styles. American Strong Ales typically have an even balance between American hops and malt (typically caramel or toffee) flavors.

Dragon’s Milk Crimson Keep pours copper in color, is clear and holds a medium tan head. The aroma is of moderate caramel and nutty malt balanced by bourbon and coconut; light cherry-like esters complement the caramel malt well. The flavor is moderately strong caramel malt with moderate bourbon, coconut and toasted oak. The beer finishes with a moderately light bitterness, and the moderate caramel malt is evenly balanced between bourbon and toasted oak. The body is medium-full and the beer finishes with a light warmth.

Dragon’s Milk Crimson Keep is a solid bourbon barrel-aged beer. The base style showcases caramel malt that is rich and medium-full but never sweet. The bourbon and barrel complement the caramel malt well. The beer is quite strong (at 11% ABV) but is never sweet, boozy or hot. Seek this beer out but beware of its strength.