Sam Adams Mighty Oak Ale

The Dirt
I honestly had low expectations for this beer. I was prepared for too much oak, not enough oak...but it ended up being delicious and well-rounded. The oak balanced very well with the sweet maltiness of the beer. It was kind of like a scotch ale, but with oak instead of peat. It had a very smooth finish that left a slightly sweet oak taste lingering on your tongue. Both tasty and drinkable.

Worth it?
It was part of a pretty stellar spring mix pack this year. I probably wouldn't buy a full 6-pack of it (oak is best in moderation), but certainly enjoyed the two that came in the pack and would buy on tap if available.

The Final Word

Sam Adams Griffin's Bow

The Dirt
Part of the Sam Adams experimental line, Griffin's Bow claims its style as an "oaked blonde barleywine ale". Sounds interesting? Or maybe confusing? Yes, and yes. It certainly has the oak flavor down, especially at the front end, but I only tasted a hint of barleywine before it fades to a blonde and then nothing at all. It could almost be labeled as a weak oaked trippel or high-octane pale.I liked it more after it sat for a few minutes, but then it really lost all association with a barleywine in my opinion. I guess when you drink this, just forget the label and drink it for what it is: an oaked double ale of some sort. If you let it warm too much, the oak flavor gets really strong, so either drink quickly or share (I suggest share...it's a bit potent to drink quickly). I also recommend a hearty meal to go with it.

I struggled to rate Griffin's Bow. For me it's a 3 if blindfolded, 2.5 after reading the label.

Worth it?
It was fun...a bit confusing, but fun. I doubt I'd buy again, but if you like trying oaked beers, this might be a good try. I find it hard to get past the absent traditional barleywine flavor though, which is probably unfair, but my taste buds must be directly linked to the part of my brain that handles expectations.

The Final Word

Harpoon 100 Barrel Series Oak Aged Dunkel

The Dirt
I found this little treat tucked away in the back of my local Spec's. Harpoon always makes quality beer, so thought I'd give this 100 Barrel Series a shot.

The first thing you notice is a nice, but subtle, toasty oak flavor, which is perfect for this dunkel. It then slides away smoothly off your palate if the beer is fully refrigerated. I recommend letting this sit a little bit to warm up. Once that happens, you get much more of the dunkel taste. You also get a little spicy dry hop action on the back-end at this point.

Worth it?
It was about $6, or just under, for the bomber. I think it was pretty reasonable for what tasted like true quality. Looking forward to trying others in the series. If you like dunkels, you'll like this guy. The oak flavor was perfectly balanced and made it a treat.

The Final Word