What Is A Barrel Aged Beer?

Brewing beer is a science, but brewing great beer is an art. In no other stage of the brewing process is this more true than when it comes to barrel-ageing.

Adding flavour and complexity by ageing beer in barrels is certainly a trend that is exploding Down Under with breweries around the country implementing barrel programs.

For those keen to discover more about this captivating brewing technique, we've put together a quick guide.

So What Is Barrel Aged Beer?

Barrel aged beer is any lager, ale or hybrid beer that has been aged in a barrel or in contact with wood. Using barrels that previously held spirits and wine, the beer absorbs the flavours creating a unique sort of aftertaste. In this process the beer also takes on the flavours of the wood, normally oak, to further enhance the aroma of the brew.

If you're feeling a little bit spicy and adventurous there are heaps of different variations of barrel aged beers. You can age beer in barrels that used to contain gin and tequila or change up the type of wood from apple, alder, hickory and plenty more.

Working out how a beer will react in a barrel is a near impossible task as every barrel is different, with even the weather having significant impact on the brew. That means that every barrel-aged beer is special in its own way.

What Does It Taste Like?

You might be thinking, why would I want my beer tasting like wood? Well, the barrel expands and shrinks based on the weather pushing the beer into different pockets of the barrel. This process infuses the beer with a naturally occurring chemical in the wood called vanillin. Vanillin adds a sweet, rich taste to the brew.

This magical process paired with the tastes from the barrel's last production will create a beer unlike any you have tasted before. A popular example is a whisky barrel-aged Imperial India Pale Ale, which after being aged in old whisky barrels displays flavours of oak and malt while being joined by a fruity and citrus punch from the hops.

Is It Worth The Coin?

It's no secret that barrel aged beers are pretty pricey, ranging anywhere from a few dollars a bottle all the way up to $50 or more. Barrel aged beers are a great recommendation for mates looking to get into craft beer, or those who say they "don't enjoy beer".

This is because of the variety of flavour that is only really limited by the brewer's imagination. When brewers do master this difficult process, it leads to some of the most intense, intricate and artistic drinks in the world.

Ready to try a barrel aged beer for yourself? Explore our current range to find your next favourite.