So Brian and I got together tonight for the first time in a while.

Naturally, what are we doing? Blogging about beer. ‘Cause we’re sweet like that.

Tonight (as Brian promised) we’re trying Backwoods Bastard from Founders in Grand Rapids Michigan.

Lets start from the beginning.

First, let it warm up to at least 55º Fahrenheit. This brings out all of the appropriate vanilla and bourbon flavors. While not necessarily in the nose, it is crucial to the flavor.

The first things you notice in the aroma is alcohol and a sweetness – both from the malt and the bourbon.

At first sip, you get hit in tongue with a lot of alcohol, which fades gracefully into a caramel and vanilla flavor on your pallet. Brian points out that there is almost a rich, tobacco flavor to it.

While there is a lot of alcohol, it really does go down smooth. The vanilla really stays with you. If its poured too cold, all you get is the alcohol, and you loose out a lot on the subtleties of the flavors.

Overall, by comparison to most beers, Brian has to give this an 8.5 or 9. However, he has to take into account having it at the Michigan Brewers Guild Winter Beer Festival, when it was one of the best beers he’s ever had (hence the lack of a 10).

I will say that when Backwoods Bastard is too cold there is definitely too much bourbon for my taste. However, when warm, there is absolutely a lot to love here. I will agree with Brian’s 8.5/10.

Ian!