North Coast Brewing Old Stock Ale 2011 Reserve

North Coast Brewing Old Stock Ale 2011 Reserve, another limited Stock Ale offering from North Coast Brewing, poured slightly lighter than the 2010 version into the glass.  The nose carried through a bit more hop spice as well.

North Coast Brewing Old Stock Ale 2011 Reserve really stood apart from 2010 on the first sip.  The hops were more present and lent a bit more balance and peppery snap to the flavor that lightened the perceived thickness of the body.  An almost rum-like fade brings some of the (almost 12% ABV) heat to the back of the mouth before drying out.

I’m surprised to say I find the 2011 Reserve to be perceivably better than the aged 2010 in both aroma and flavor.  Whereas the 2010 was softer and maltier, the 2011 was a livelier experience throughout.  

North Coast Brewing Old Stock Ale 2010 Reserve

North Coast Brewing Old Stock Ale 2010 Reserve, a limited Stock Ale offering from North Coast Brewing, poured a thick, deep amber color with red highlights and a small, short lived tan head.  The nose was rich and heavy with sweet malt, barleywine-like in structure, with some vanilla and caramel.

North Coast Brewing Old Stock Ale 2010 Reserve opened as a malt bomb; rich and thick and coating the mouth with burnt toffee, butterscotch, bourbon, and vanilla.  The ale firmed up as it settled in the mouth and darkened, fading on a sweet, maple syrup and fig end.

North Coast Brewing Old Stock Ale 2010 Reserve much more closely resembled the barley wine style of ale than the historic “Old Stock” style, and is not for the faint of heart.  I’m doing a vertical today, so the 2011 Reserve version is up next!