There is something about a big barleywine in the depths of winter that just feels right. The kind of beer you do not rush. The kind you pour into a snifter, let warm slowly in your hand, and revisit as it evolves. This one leans into that experience in a big way.
Twisted Rye
At 12.0% ABV, Twisted Rye starts with their Twisted Reality Barleywine and pushes it further by aging it in a barrel from a famous distiller known for a 95% rye mashbill. It is the brewery’s first time using this particular rye heavy barrel, and it shows up in all the right ways.
Though it appears to pour a deep brown or nearly black in low light, hold it up and a deep, rich mahogany glows from within. A finger of off white bubbles forms quickly, then fizzes away, leaving behind wispy lacing that clings gently to the walls of the glass.
The aroma is layered and inviting. Rich bourbon sweetness rises first, followed by a spicy rye edge that gives it structure. Roasted and toasty malt provides deep caramel and toffee notes, with a gentle vanilla weaving through it all. There is even a subtle fruitiness, just a hint of berry, that brightens the heavier elements.
The first sip delivers a mouthful of caramel malt. It opens slightly sweet, then quickly dries out, revealing nutty toffee and a firm backbone. The finish is where the barrel truly speaks. Sweet bourbon and oaky vanilla glide in, followed by a dryness from the rye that keeps everything in check. The rye spice is present but restrained, adding complexity without overpowering the base beer. As it warms, the body shows a pleasant chewiness, full flavored and rewarding with every slow sip.
Town Hall describes heavy spice, oak, floral notes, and fruit forward caramel character, and that balance is exactly what makes this beer compelling. It is bold but not brash. Warming but not hot. A barleywine that embraces rye spice without losing its English style soul.
This is a sipper built for patience. Let it warm. Let it breathe. And let it twist your expectations of what a rye barrel can do to a classic barleywine.