Founders Backwoods Bastard

This is the 2018 vintage of this annual barrel aged release from Founders Brewing of Grand Rapids, Michigan. It is a 10.0% ABV ale aged in bourbon barrels.

The beer pours a very dark brown and dark ruby, appearing near black. There is a short, thin head that is light tan in color. The aroma is sweet, malty, roasted, bourbon, maple, dark caramel, a touch of molasses, and a bit of oak, cherry, and vanilla. The taste follows the aromas, sweet, roasted, with fruit, bourbon, and oak. While quite sweet, the finish is dry, with a moderate, oaky bitterness. Later, a note of toasted coconut lurks shyly in the background. The beer drinks smooth, with a nice body, ample enough to hold up all of the flavors, but still with a nice background of carbonation. This is amazing this year.