Great Divide - Old Ruffian

This a is hefty, hop-forward Barley Wine- Style Ale. Seemingly mellow at the start with subtle fruit aromas and complex caramel sweetness, it quickly becomes aggressive with its bold hop flavors and huge hop bitterness. Ultimately, the big body, succulent sweetness and massive hop character come together to work wonders on your palate.  I had this in Reading, PA with a group of friends at Canal Street Pub, (Legacy Brewing).

The second time was in Feb 2011.

The ABV is 10.2 and the IBU rating is ??.
Seasonal - Available January through March.

Style - American Barley Wine
Glass to use - Snifter, Tulip or Goblet
Delivery 22oz bottle.

Can be cellared for long periods, under the proper conditions.

The Pour - Copper color with a light tan head that diminishes towards the end of the session, good lacing.
Aroma - Malty, sweet, faint hint of citrus and hops.
Taste - Malty and sweet as in caramel, brown sugar with a bitter hop after taste.
Mouth Feel - Thick candy coating, low carbonation and full body.
Drinkable -It is drinkable, I finished the bottle in one session.  A bit too much of the hoppy after taste for me but still very good.  The alcohol is well-hidden.

This beer pairs perfectly with cheese and deserts.  Mostly cheeses.

This beer gets a Duper rating of A

BeerAdvocate Rating =A

Ratebeer Rating = 99

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