Beer Man: Utopias 2015 blends best of beer, wine, spirits
Beer Man is a weekly profile of beers from across the country and around the world.
This week: Utopias 2015
Boston Beer Co., Boston
Every two years Samuel Adams releases its monster Utopias beer, which includes a mix of beers aged in various wine and spirit casks. Each edition is different but share the common trait of drinking like a fine liqueur.
The 28% alcohol content is not a misprint — Utopias is 56 proof.
This year's edition spent time in Madeira, Carcavelos, Cognac, Armagnac and Buffalo Trace Distillery bourbon casks, although another release from the brewery also mentions port casks and another, the use of maple syrup.
The Carcavelos is new — it's a blended, fortified wine from Portugal that is slightly sweet and nutty.
The malts used include two-row pale malt, Briess Extral Special, Munich and Caramel 60. Some of the grains have been exposed to cherrywood and smoked peat. Keep in mind, however, that while this composes the base of the beer, there is also the addition of older beers, some that have been aging for up to 22 years, which explains the price tag.
Most people I have shared Utopias with have the reaction that it doesn't taste like beer. They are correct. It has much more in common with sherrys or liqueurs, including no carbonation and best enjoyed at room temperature in a snifter. It is something to keep in mind when deciding to purchase a 750ml bottle of beer retailing for $199.
The strongest flavors I noticed right off the bat were bourbon, vanilla, maple, port, sherry, cinnamon and tobacco. After I let the first taste settle in, there were notes of oak, grape, molasses, nuttiness and a slight tartness.
The mouthfeel was slightly oily, but not thick or cloying. I especially liked the tobacco notes in the beer. The smokiness was not overpowering, but complemented the strong characteristics.
The fun thing about Utopias is that all these complex flavors will probably taste different to different people. Sampling it with a group has always resulted in interesting discussions.
The release of Utopias will be very limited — some stores can only get a couple of bottles. The best advice I have is to call the most well-stocked liquor store in your area and inquire.
Many beers are available only regionally. Check the brewer's website, which often contains information on product availability by mail. Contact Todd Haefer at beerman@postcrescent.com. To read previous Beer Man columns, click here.