The Finer Brews In Life

After last week's particularly alcohol-imbued choice, I thought I would explore some other American ales that pride themselves on the ability to make a strong beverage that is actually drinkable and retains the maximum amount of flavor without being too heavy. Some of the stronger European stuff like Gulden Draak has a tendency to be a little thick. It's like drinking carbonated red wine at times. This week, with that goal in mind, I had to go for my favorite beer from the Stone Brewing Company, Oaked Arrogant Bastard Ale. Often, Stone outright mocks companies that produce low-carb or exceedingly light beers. Most of their choices feature alcohol content that is above average to say the least. In addition to that, their various demon-inspired logos are pretty intimidating.

The Oaked Bastard has been around since about 2004 in very limited release. However, now you can get it in 12 oz. bottles and occasionally on tap. One difference between this choice and the Hampshire Special is how apparent the alcohol is in the nose. The first thing you will notice in this brew is the wood and hops, but the roasted malts are really what keeps the alcohol out of the smell. Upon pouring, the dark roast actually puffs out at you. The color is a dark maroon, brownish haze with a thick eggshell head that laces perfectly.

The alcohol is apparent when the ale hits the pallet but you don't realize that the strength of the beer comes from the 7.2 abv right away. It takes a minute. You can feel that it is strong, but not moonshine strong. The abundance and thickness of flavor is what is most apparent, but the alcohol gives it that little extra bite that gives you that perfect beer face, like Burt Reynolds scaling the Rockies with a pipe in mouth kind of face.

I wouldn't say this is good session beer. Again it's a good brew to drink on a cold day around the house in moderation. If you're going to go for it out in a bar try to stick to about two and then move to the Stone IPA. This is not for the weak in spirit. Even if you don't like those heavy Euro-beers, give this one a try -- you might find you enjoy what The Stone Brewing Company is doing with moderate fruits, burnt wood and some fantastic malts. If you're living in the dorms you will also find its more bang for your buck as well. If you get an average sixer the total abv is 29.4 and with The Oaked Bastard its 49.2. That's like three more beers. Looks like we found a loophole.