Apr 21, 2016

Dogfish Head Oak Aged Noble Rot

Dogfish Head made waves a few years ago with the release of their beer and wine mashup, Noble Rot. Now, we’ve got a version of that tasty brew that has been sitting in oak tanks for a year. Oak Aged Noble Rot (9% ABV) continues to use the grape must from botrytis-infected Viognier grapes prior to heading into its oak nap.

The result of all that time on wood is a beer that carries a surprisingly subtle oak influence. I was expecting something a bit more woody, but after having had the beer, I’m glad that the oak presence enhances the vinous notes instead of overwhelming everything. The saison-like funk is still apparent and leads the way for the smooth grape character.

Oak Aged Noble Rot is one of those beers that, just like the base beer, challenges expectations. It’s flavorful, complex and quite refreshing for a beer of its size. I do believe that I’ll be on the look out for more bottles in the future — this is a brew that will treat you just right in the upcoming Summer months.