Brewed for the first time in the spring of 2022, our Blonde Barleywine was nestled in the quietest corner of our barrel warehouse and put into a deep slumber for an indeterminate amount of time. Walking amongst these towering stacks of barrels, surrounded by the intoxicating aromas of earthy oak, char, and spice, the space that housed these precious wooden vessels of golden elixir was thus deemed the Gilded Grove.
Gilded Grove - Ceramic Toast is a singular barleywine made with gourmet toasted oak barrels imported from France. Here is how it is described by the maker: In 2007, Jean-Christophe Varron, an epicurean and a cooperage leader for 35 years, invented Éclat- the gourmet French oak barrel. His vision derives from the desire to offer oak contribution that expands a winemaker’s spice box beyond the limitations of fire toasting. Éclat’s proprietary ceramic heating method cooks the shaped staves, providing uniform penetration and caramelizing wood sugars throughout the entirety of the barrel, without smoky characteristics. Jean Christophe describes the effect” akin to baking a cake in an oven instead of placing it on the grill.” These barrels lend an incredible and beautiful softness to our barleywine, with flavors and aromas of sugared apples, baking spice, and tannic wood. Finally, an absence of char in the toasting process creates unparalleled flavors of caramel and warming oak that aptly show what these barrels can do. We find this beer to be so delightful - it provides an elegant, understated, and contemplative experience that is entirely unique. We hope you have a chance to try it.
