Lough Gill Tara 2 Years Aged Pedro Ximénez Barrel Aged Imperial Stout 33cl 12.9% is a limited-edition Irish imperial stout released to celebrate Lough Gill Brewery's tenth anniversary in 2026. Matured for two years in specially selected Pedro Ximénez sherry barrels, this anniversary edition represents a particularly ambitious expression of the brewery's established Tara series.
Tara has become an annual release for Lough Gill, with each edition showcasing the relationship between strong imperial stout and the rich character of PX sherry barrels. However, this particular release has been two years in the making.
When the brewery filled a selection of Pedro Ximénez barrels two years earlier, the brewers immediately recognised their exceptional quality. The aromas coming from the barrels were so impressive that they decided to reserve them for an extended maturation.
Rather than release the beer alongside the regular annual Tara, the brewery allowed these barrels to rest for two full years.
The result is a special anniversary edition, presented in a 33cl bottle rather than the can used for the standard release.
Pedro Ximénez is a sweet style of sherry traditionally associated with intensely concentrated dried-fruit flavours. Raisins, figs, dates, treacle and caramel are common characteristics of the wine, making PX barrels especially interesting for ageing powerful dark beers.
Imperial stout provides a natural foundation for this approach. Its substantial roasted malt character and elevated alcohol strength can work alongside the influence of fortified wine barrels, creating opportunities for considerable complexity.
At 12.9% ABV, Tara 2 Years Aged is firmly within the stronger end of Irish craft beer.
The extended maturation, limited anniversary release and bottle presentation distinguish it from the regular Tara, making it particularly appealing to enthusiasts of specialist barrel-aged imperial stouts.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Deep brown to black, characteristic of a strong imperial stout.
Aroma: Roasted malt with potential dried-fruit and dark caramel influences from the Pedro Ximénez barrels.
Taste: A rich imperial stout foundation, with roasted malt and dark chocolate characteristics potentially complemented by the raisin-like sweetness associated with PX sherry.
Mouthfeel: Full-bodied and substantial, with warming strength and the potential for a rounded texture following two years of barrel maturation.
About the Brewery
Lough Gill Brewery is an independent Irish craft brewery based in Sligo, in the northwest of Ireland. Named after nearby Lough Gill, the brewery produces a diverse range of beers, including modern hop-forward styles, experimental releases and a particularly interesting selection of barrel-aged imperial stouts.
The brewery's tenth anniversary in 2026 marks an important milestone, and Tara 2 Years Aged has been released specifically to celebrate the occasion.
The story behind this edition also demonstrates the patience involved in barrel ageing. While many strong beers are matured for several months, holding a selection of barrels for two full years requires careful planning and a willingness to wait for the desired result.
Tara has become an annual feature of Lough Gill's barrel-aged range, but the decision to reserve these particular Pedro Ximénez barrels makes this release distinct from the standard editions.
The brewery's approach to barrel ageing extends beyond PX sherry. Its wider range explores the influence of whiskey, bourbon and other fortified wine casks, allowing drinkers to compare the different characteristics that each barrel type can bring to strong dark beer.
For anyone interested in the evolution of Ireland's independent brewing scene, Lough Gill's anniversary release is an example of how Irish breweries continue to develop ambitious, long-matured beers.
Explore more releases from independent breweries in our Irish craft beer collection.
Food Pairings
Lough Gill Tara 2 Years Aged is particularly well suited to rich desserts and intensely flavoured foods that can stand alongside a 12.9% imperial stout.
Dark chocolate truffles are an excellent starting point. Their cocoa richness can complement the roasted malt character of the beer, while the PX barrel influence offers an interesting contrast.
Sticky toffee pudding is another appealing choice. The dessert's caramelised sweetness works naturally with the dried-fruit and treacle characteristics traditionally associated with Pedro Ximénez sherry.
Christmas pudding or a rich fruitcake also makes sense, particularly where raisins, dates and dried figs are prominent.
For a savoury pairing, try mature blue cheese. Its saltiness and intensity can balance the richness of a strong imperial stout, creating a contrast to the sweeter characteristics associated with PX barrel ageing.
Serve Tara 2 Years Aged at approximately 12–14°C in a snifter or tulip glass. Allowing the beer to warm gradually can help its aromas develop as you drink.
Try More Like This
If you enjoy Lough Gill Tara 2 Years Aged, explore our Stout & Porter collection for more imperial stouts, barrel-aged beers and other rich, dark styles.
For more beers from independent breweries around Ireland, browse our Irish craft beer selection.
You can also discover our complete Craft Beer & Craft Cider range, featuring traditional styles, limited editions and experimental releases from Ireland and around the world.
Shop the best of craft beer Ireland and from around the world online with TheCru.ie or in our Dublin craft beer store, Carry Out Tyrrelstown in Dublin 15.