About This Beer
Rye River Scarlet Barrel Aged Belgian Quadrupel is one of the most ambitious and expressive beers to come from the award-winning Kildare brewery. At 13.5% ABV, it stands firmly in the world of strong, decadent Belgian ales, characterised by rich malt sweetness, deep fruit notes and layers of warming complexity. Scarlet begins life as a Belgian-style Quadrupel brewed with an elaborate malt bill, before spending time ageing in premium barrels that impart depth, roundness and elegant oak character. The result is a beer that offers structure, sweetness and subtle spice in perfect harmony.
Quadrupels are known for being bold, contemplative and packed with flavour, and Scarlet is no exception. Expect dark fruit notes of raisin, fig and prune, complemented by caramel, toasted sugar and spicy Belgian esters. The barrel ageing adds vanilla, char, tannin and oak warmth, elevating the beer into something that feels suitable for special occasions and slow enjoyment. If you’re exploring big, expressive beers, you can find more options in our Other Beer Styles collection, where limited editions, barrel-aged beers and unique seasonal releases sit comfortably together.
Tasting Notes
• Appearance: Deep mahogany with ruby glints and a creamy tan head.
• Aroma: Dark fruit, caramel, clove, vanilla, oak and warming alcohol.
• Flavour: Rich notes of fig, raisin, caramelised sugar and warming spice with a rounded oak finish.
• Mouthfeel: Full-bodied, smooth and warming with soft carbonation and a long, lingering finish.
About the Brewery
Rye River Brewing Company, based in Celbridge, Co. Kildare, has built a reputation as one of Ireland’s most consistently awarded breweries. Known for their technical precision, state-of-the-art brewing facilities and commitment to quality, they produce a wide variety of beers across multiple ranges, including their celebrated Rye River Seasonal Series, of which Scarlet is a standout. Over the years, the brewery has won numerous international awards, reflecting their dedication to brewing excellence.
Scarlet highlights Rye River’s ability to combine traditional European styles with modern brewing techniques and barrel-ageing expertise. Their focus on process control, ingredient selection and careful maturation ensures that each bottle offers the same depth, balance and quality that customers have come to expect. This beer has quickly become a collector’s favourite and a must-try for fans of expressive, high-ABV styles.
Food Pairings
Scarlet’s rich sweetness and warming alcohol make it an excellent partner for bold and indulgent dishes. Pair it with braised beef short rib, venison pie, roast duck or spiced lamb. The malt sweetness and oak character complement the savoury richness and create a harmonious pairing. For cheeses, strong blue cheese, aged gouda or mature cheddar work beautifully.
Dessert pairings are particularly rewarding with this beer. Try it alongside sticky toffee pudding, dark chocolate torte, gingerbread, Christmas pudding or caramelised pear tart. The deep fruit notes and caramel sweetness enhance festive flavours and complement warm spices.
Browse our Belgian Beer, German Beer, Irish Craft Beer, or Beer Kegs.
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