Barley wine is a rather under-produced style in my view, especially here in New England. Thus my excitement upon seeing Ipswich Brewing of Ipswich, Massachusetts venturing a foray into the style. 1084, obviously named for the original gravity of the brew, comes in a clear eight ounce bottle packaged in a black cardboard tube. At $3.99 per bottle, it is a bit pricey, and I must say I disagree with barley wines being sold in such small quantities. Come on guys, we can handle it!

The beer has a murky orange color. The nose reveals a distinct citric hop character. The palate is very complex, sweet and malty with just a hint of butterscotch, grassy and citric from the hops. All of these flavors meld together in the finish to give the beer a wonderful spicy character. An excellent American barley wine, and one which will no doubt improve with age.