The malt has almost completely taken over in 6ish years. Smells like a barleywine but not much sweetness on the tongue. When fully chilled it has a lingering astringent bitterness that isn't entirely pleasant. Levels out a bit as it warms. Not very balanced, the elements don't work together. I loved it fresh, a grown up and refine version of the single. I'll try the 2015 soon but my guess is that I don't want to age this beer in the future.

Has definitely smoothed out after a few months. Quite pleasant, coffee isn't as bitter. Never had a strong barrel flavor, just a little sweetness and depth. Can't promise I would guess it's barrel aged if I didn't already know. That's really the only disappointing thing. I should grade on a curve at 8% but come on, guys!

Very strong coffee flavor. I wonder what the base beer is like because it's not massive. Some nice chocolate stuff as well but the coffee is the featured player. Thankfully the coffee isn't bitter. I can't really detect any whiskey and I'm hard pressed to be more specific regarding any qualities lent by the barrel besides depth. Easy to understand they'd be reticent to leave it in the barrel for an extended period of time given their previous production issues with this beer. Is this just their brewhouse stout barrel aged (or vice versa)? Doesn't seem like a candidate for aging at this ABV, although I'm not sure it's really 8.5%.

Really coats your mouth, this one. Very roasty, I don't think it's char from the barrel. I do get plenty of oak, disappointed that the rum doesn't go further than the aroma. I worry about my palate sometimes. I get some toasted coconut and it seems like it would be really sweet if it gets too warm. Not a great example of balance. Nothing really subtle but it's not a mess like Loonidragon. Doesn't bear repeating.

Lots of char, less chocolate than the 2015 that I had recently. This bottle got really boozy as it warmed. Can use some time to mellow. Always a pleasure to drink.