Deschutes Brewery Class of '88 Barley Wine Ale

Hello beer lovers and welcome to another edition of the NorCal Beer Blog's brew review.

Tonight’s featured beer is Deschutes Brewery Class of '88 Barley Wine Ale. I reviewed the North Coast Brewing Company version of this beer (here) and since I was able to source the Deschutes Brewery version I thought I’d review that one as well to see how different they are.  I have yet to source the Rogue Ales version.

From the Deschutes Brewery website: “Rogue and North Coast Brewing Co. have joined forces with us to recreate a craft beer classic.

A hoppy citrus aroma radiates from this pale amber Barley Wine Ale. Its sturdy malt backbone is balanced with clean bitterness. Finishes pleasantly without overpowering.”

Let’s get started!

Appearance: Pours a clear copper color with a fluffy white head and nice lacing.

Aroma: Caramel malts, citrus, pine and tropical hops, toffee, bready and biscuit malts.

Taste: Caramel and toasted malts, pine, citrus and tropical hops, toffee and a slight banana flavor.

Overall: Solid and delicious, Deschutes Brewery Class of '88 Barley Wine Ale is quite enjoyable.  I’d like to sample this side by side with the other versions.  Like the North Coast Brewing Company version this also weighs in at 10% ABV.  Check it out if you can find it.

Cheers!

Mark Harvey

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