At Town Hall Brewery, some beers are brewed. Others are crafted over time. And then there are the ones that feel engineered through patience and precision. Iced Old Vine Cruvee falls squarely into that last category.
A unique blend of TH beers underwent lengthy aging in a California Red Zinfandel barrel, allowing layers of vinous depth and dark fruit to develop. After barrel aging, the beer was lightly frozen. Water crystallized into ice and was removed, leaving behind a concentrated liquid packed with intensified flavor and body. The result is a bold 14% ABV sipper that feels both refined and experimental.
Barrel Aged, Then Concentrated
The Zinfandel barrel brings structure and deep red wine character. That long aging period builds richness before the freeze concentration sharpens and amplifies everything. It is not gimmick driven. It is deliberate. A technique used to focus the beer into something denser and more expressive.
In the Glass
It pours a deep mahogany red with a small cap of off white foam that settles into a thin ring around the glass. The color alone suggests weight and maturity.
The nose is saturated with red wine notes. Dark berries dominate, supported by very ripe strawberry and layered vinous character. It leans deep and subtle aromatically, almost brooding.
On the Palate
The first sip shifts expectations.
Where the aroma feels dark and restrained, the flavor is brighter. Marmalade and red wine meet mid palate, offering a concentrated fruit character that feels vivid rather than heavy. There is an almost distilled red wine intensity to it.
A touch of dry toffee adds depth. The freeze concentration contributes an oily texture and warming booziness that reminds you this is 14%, yet it never tips into harsh territory. It is surprisingly drinkable for something this powerful.
Final Thoughts
Iced Old Vine Cruvee blurs the line between barrel aged beer and fortified wine. It is bold but balanced. Experimental but precise. A slow sipper that rewards attention.
This is the kind of release that showcases what Town Hall can do when they let time, barrels, and creativity work together. If you appreciate big, layered, thoughtfully executed beers, this one deserves a place in your glass.