It’s that time again. Time for Firestone Walker to release their Anniversary Ale. This year brings us Firestone XVII Anniversary Ale, a blend of 220 oak barrels and seven different beers to create an exceptional combination of flavors.
This year’s blend is a mix of Bravo, Stickee Monkee, Velvet Merkin, Parabola, Double DBA, Helldorado, and Wookey Jack coming from bourbon, brandy, whiskey, and union oak barrels.
Pour is deep mahogany with rich reddish undertones and a small amount of off white head. It’s got a very smooth, creamy mouthfeel. The aroma has rich notes of coffee and cacao with a subtle bourbon sweetness and a hint of rye. The flavor starts with coconut and vanilla that recedes to a rich malty bourbon, then a bitter cacao nib, and finishes on a coffee malt. The aftertaste has a subtle espresso flavor with a mellow bourbon quality to it that hides the alcohol very well.
| Name | Firestone XVII Anniversary Ale |
| Brewery | Firestone Walker |
| Style | American Strong Ale |
| ABV | 13.3% |
| Availability | Limited One Time Bottle and Draft Release |
| Rating | 4.5 out of 5 |
Overall this is another great blend. You’ve got to make sure you let it warm up a little to get the full effect. For those who have had past Anniversary Ales, you will no be disappointed. For those who have not, you’re in for a treat if you are a fan of big, strong beers. If you’re interested in getting this one be sure to move quickly, as these bottles usually do not stay on the shelf for long. The LA area should be seeing some in this week at most bottle shops and some higher end markets (AKA Whole Foods). And for those who really want to have the full Anniversary Ale experience, Blue Palms will be hosting an 13 to 16 tasting flight to coincide with their Firestone XVII Anniversary Ale tapping event this Saturday, November 23 2013.
Cheers!
Beer Guy LA