Ballykilcavan Barrel Aged Brown Ale #1 Islay Whisky is a testament to the innovative spirit of Irish craft brewing. Hailing from Ballykilcavan Brewing Company in County Laois, this American Brown Ale, with a 5.5% ABV, exemplifies the brewery's commitment to creating unique and high-quality beers.
Brewery Profile:
Established in 2016, Ballykilcavan Brewing Company is situated on a family farm that has been in the Walsh family since 1639. The brewery operates from a 240-year-old stone building, reflecting a deep respect for heritage while embracing modern brewing techniques. Their dedication to sustainability is evident, having achieved Gold status in Origin Green, Ireland's national sustainability programme, for three consecutive years. Additionally, they have garnered six national sustainability awards over the past two years, underscoring their environmental commitment.
Ballykilcavan's beers have been recognised for excellence, winning six medals at the 2019 Dublin Craft Beer Cup.
Their innovative approach and quality have solidified their reputation in the craft beer community.
Tasting Notes:
Appearance: This ale pours a deep mahogany brown, with ruby highlights that catch the light. It is topped with a creamy, off-white head that lingers, leaving a delicate lacing on the glass.
Aroma: The nose is greeted with enticing notes of dark chocolate and roasted malt. Subtle hints of peat smoke and oak, derived from the Islay whisky barrel aging, add complexity to the aroma profile.
Flavour: On the palate, a harmonious blend of caramel and toffee emerges, characteristic of a well-crafted American Brown Ale. The influence of the Islay whisky barrels imparts smoky undertones, introducing layers of depth that enhance the beer's complexity. The finish is smooth and slightly warming, leaving a lasting impression.
Mouthfeel: Medium-bodied with a velvety texture, this ale offers balanced carbonation that elevates its drinkability. The barrel aging contributes to a refined mouthfeel, making each sip a pleasure.
Food Pairings:
This Barrel Aged Brown Ale pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Its rich malt character and smoky notes complement grilled meats, such as beef or lamb, enhancing the savoury flavours. For cheese lovers, it pairs excellently with aged cheddar or Gouda, where the beer's sweetness balances the cheese's sharpness. Desserts like chocolate fondant or tiramisu are elevated when enjoyed alongside this ale, as the caramel and toffee notes harmonise with the dessert's richness.
Sustainability Commitment:
Ballykilcavan Brewing Company's dedication to sustainability is integral to their operations. As Gold status members of Origin Green, they have implemented significant measures to reduce energy and water consumption, eliminate single-use plastics, and promote biodiversity around the brewery. Their efforts have been recognised with multiple national sustainability awards, reflecting their commitment to environmental stewardship.
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