In Hollywood, there is the oft-repeated phrase, “But I really want to direct.” Actors become directors as do writers and producers. The same motivation seems to be in place for breweries. I want to brew but I really want to have a barrel-aging program.
Not, of course, a bad thing. It just came to mind when hearing about the second release in the Scientific Series from Surf Brewery, of Ventura. The limited release Oil Piers Porter, aged in French Oak Merlot barrels came out in mid-February.
“The culmination of close to three years of barrel aging in French oak and artful blending at their newly established barrel aging warehouse in Moorpark, CA., has resulted in this dark porter featuring lush flavors from the barrel on top of rich chocolate malt with just enough oak flavor to draw out the finish.”
Coming next from the Scientific Series barrels will be a Belgian Tripel, a blonde, plus more porter and a Flanders red sour.