Buckle up, buttercup, because Captain Lawrence Brewing Company’s Golden Delicious is not your average beer. It’s more like a shot of brandy chasing a beer, or, for me, a beer chasing a shot of brandy. Either way, at 10% ABV, this apple-brandy-barrel-aged tripel is a potent brew that demands your full attention.
My first sip was a bit of a shock—a symphony of “Ahh!” and “What the…”—but like a fine wine (or a stiff drink), Golden Delicious mellows with each subsequent sip. The vanilla oak barrel flavor and the undeniable warmth of the alcohol gradually permeate your senses, transforming you into a full-fledged fan by the time you reach the bottom of the glass.
Just remember, this ain’t no regular beer. Don’t even think about cracking open a can of Golden Delicious if you’re behind the wheel. And if you plan on having more than one, make sure you’ve got a designated driver (or a comfy couch) and a few friends to help you walk.
As for accolades, Captain Lawrence claims Golden Delicious won first place in the 2023 Great International Beer Competition’s Strong Beer Category. And let’s not forget those shiny medals. The can also boasts a GABF Bronze Medal for Wood-and-Barrel-Aged Strong Beer in both 2008 and 2012. But honestly, who needs awards when you’ve got a beer this unique and unforgettable?
So, if you’re feeling adventurous and your liver is up for the challenge, give Golden Delicious a try. Just be prepared for a wild ride—and maybe have some aspirin on hand for the morning after.
- IBUs: N/A
- Awards: First place in the 2023 Great International Beer Competition’s Strong Beer Category
- Awards: GABF Bronze Medal for Wood-and-Barrel-Aged Strong Beer in both 2008 and 2012
- Brewer: Captain Lawrence Brewing Company, Elmsford, New York-based craft brewery
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