Troegs Bourbon Barrel-Aged Troegenator
Troegs’ Troegenator is a Barley Blog HQ favorite as the weather starts to cool and we need a little something extra to keep warm. The doppelbock’s rich flavors and warming glow have always treated us right through the Winter months. It’s hard to imagine the beer needing anything else to make it any more enjoyable. At least, that’s what I thought prior to finding a bottle of Bourbon Barrel-Aged Troegenator back in late June.
The brewery has done an excellent job with this variant as the barrel influence is smooth and measured in its presentation. The bourbon, wood and vanilla are all in play, but never overtake or distract from the rich malt, caramel and breadiness at the core Troegenator. Everything that I enjoy about the doppelbock glides smoothly over the palate as it always has, as a comforting level of bourbon and distant woody notes echo in the distance.
This beer is a prime example of using barrel aging to accentuate and compliment the flavors already present in a great beer. The bourbon and wood isn’t employed here to hide flaws or distract from any off flavors. The whole package with Bourbon Barrel-Aged Troegenator is spot on and well balanced, resulting in a thoroughly impressive beer. My only regret with this experience is not having purchased more than the one bottle.