An old fashioned beer is a unique and flavorful brew that pays homage to the classic bourbon cocktail, the Old Fashioned. This style of beer combines elements of both a robust brown ale and the delicious flavors typically found in an Old Fashioned cocktail.
To create this distinctive beer, brewers start with a base of a robust brown ale. This style of beer is known for its deep, malty flavors and rich, dark appearance. It provides a solid foundation for the complex flavors that will be added later in the brewing process.
One of the key ingredients in an Old Fashioned beer is orange peel. The brewers add orange peel to the beer, which imparts a citrusy, orange-like flavor. This addition adds a refreshing and bright note to the beer, reminiscent of the orange zest often found in an Old Fashioned cocktail.
In addition to the orange peel, Hersbrucker hops are used in the brewing process. These hops naturally have orange-like flavors, further enhancing the citrusy characteristics of the beer. The hops also contribute a subtle bitterness that balances out the sweetness from the malt.
But what truly sets an Old Fashioned beer apart is the addition of fresh cherry puree. Towards the end of fermentation, the brewers add cherry puree to the beer. This infusion of cherry flavor adds a fruity and slightly tart element to the beer, reminiscent of the cherry garnish often found in an Old Fashioned cocktail.
To take the Old Fashioned beer to the next level, it is then aged in bourbon barrels. This aging process allows the beer to absorb the flavors and aromas from the bourbon, adding a rich and complex depth to the beer. The bourbon barrels also impart a subtle oakiness, giving the beer a smooth and slightly woody character.
To further enhance the cocktail-like experience, aromatic bitters are added during the barrel aging process. Aromatic bitters are a key ingredient in an Old Fashioned cocktail, adding complex herbal and spice flavors. The addition of aromatic bitters to the beer adds another layer of complexity and depth, creating a truly unique and flavorful experience.
The end result is an Old Fashioned beer that captures the essence of the classic cocktail. It combines the robust maltiness of a brown ale with the refreshing citrus flavors of orange peel and Hersbrucker hops. The addition of fresh cherry puree and the aging in bourbon barrels with aromatic bitters elevates the beer to a whole new level, creating a truly memorable and delicious drinking experience.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting and experiencing a variety of beers, including old fashioned beers. The combination of flavors in an Old Fashioned beer is truly remarkable, and it is a style that stands out among the vast array of craft beers available today. The balance of malt sweetness, citrusy orange, fruity cherry, and the rich depth from the bourbon barrel aging creates a harmonious and complex beer that is a delight to drink.
Whether you're a fan of classic cocktails or simply enjoy exploring unique and flavorful beers, an Old Fashioned beer is definitely worth trying. Its blend of traditional brewing techniques and cocktail-inspired ingredients make it a standout choice for those looking for something a little different and a lot delicious. Cheers!