Yesterday I sample Red Trolley, which has quickly become a west coast classic and today I'm following it up with a beer that's rapidly gaining it's legendary status here in California, Firestone Walker Double Barrel Ale. Although the Firestone Walker brand is barely a decade old, the unique process by which their Double Barrel ale is brewed has quickly made a name for this independent brewery. The brewers at Firestone Walker adopted and tweaked an old brewing method called the "Burton Union" method. The method isn't some sort of big secret; in fact the name Double Barrel Ale is a clue about the brewing process, which uses aged oak barrels to give this beer it's distinct flavor. Oak barrel brewing isn't exactly feasible or cost effective for a macro-brewery where the chief concern is turning a tidy profit, but for a craft brewery is an excellent way to create a brew with a rich and distinctive flavor.
When poured into a glass, the aroma of buttered brain and sweet malts are instantly noticeable, but not exactly overwhelming. There is a strong honey flavor to Firestone Walker Double Barrel Ale which comes as a result of the oak barrel brewing process. Some other floral and hoppy notes are present in this beer, but they're fairly understated when compared to the sweet malt and honey flavors that dominate. Moderate carbonation and a medium bodied mouthfeel make Firestone Walker Double Barrel Ale very drinkable, if you ask me (which I'm assuming you are, if you're reading my blog). All in all, is a great example of what a craft brewery can accomplish when everything is done right, and no corners are cut. Today Firestone Walker is extremely popular out here on the west coast, and it could hardly be considered a fledgling little microbrewery anymore, but I give them the fullest props for still brewing their Double Barrel Ale to the same exacting standards by which it was first brewed.
Cheers,
Ian
http://www.firestonebeer.com/
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