Oaked Bastard

Found this gem at The Bier Stein a couple weeks ago and have been saving a couple in my fridge ever since, as you can see from the "In Alan's Kitchen" list on the left. I had read the rave reviews of Oaked Arrogant Bastard but never came across it. The trademark gargoyle on the bottle tells us that this is a beer from Stone Brewery in San Diego.

If you've had Arrogant Bastard Ale, for the most part you know what Oaked Bastard brings to the table. First off, the cool bottle with the patronizing message to unworthy beer drinkers on the side. More importantly, though, the flavor. Complex and alcoholic. Malt sweetness is a combination of fruit, chocolate, brown sugar and something herbal. The hops are big, piney and balanced. Oaked Bastard of course is aged in oak barrels which adds a dose of bourbon like woodsy sweetness in the nose, adding even more complexity to this beer.

This one is a winner. If you can find it, buy a few of them. My picture doesn't do this beer justice, typically the beer is a bit more foamy and held up to the light it has a sexy ruby/amber color. If you have one available, try pouring it into a goblet, snifter, or oversized wine glass to fully experience the aroma and also project the maximum level of arrogance during consumption.