You already know M.L.Rose is famous for the perfect burger, but we’re just as serious about our beer. With 36 taps pouring at every location, we’ve got something for every palate. But there’s one style that deserves a little extra spotlight: the heavy-hitter, next-level stuff.
We’re talking about barrel-aged beer.
In a beer garden setting like ours, a barrel-aged stout or barleywine stands out. Why? These beers are rich, complex, and crafted for savoring and enjoyment. Paired with pub favorites like burgers, fries, and cheese curds, it’s more than just a drink; it’s an experience.
Let’s dive into the woods.
Barrel Aging 101: Beyond the Fermenter
Barrel aging is a secondary process that happens after the beer’s primary fermentation.
Think of it this way: your beer is already good, but then it goes back to school for a graduate degree in flavor. While stainless steel tanks keep beer clean and bright, wooden barrels transform it with months (or even years) of maturation. That’s how a solid stout becomes a legendary bourbon barrel-aged stout.
Where the Flavor Comes From: Types of Barrels
The biggest influence on a barrel-aged beer’s taste is what the barrel held before. Most craft brewers use repurposed barrels from distilleries or wineries, allowing the beer to absorb not only the wood’s character but also the spirit or wine that came before it.
Type of Barrel | Key Flavor Influence | M.L.Rose Vibe Check |
Bourbon / Whiskey | Vanilla, Oak, Char, Coconut, Boozy Heat. | The classic. Big, bold, and pairs perfectly with a juicy burger. |
Rum | Brown Sugar, Molasses, Tropical Spice, Earthy Sweetness. | Adds a smooth, warming sweetness, perfect for pairing with desserts. |
Wine (Red or White) | Tartness, Tannins, Stone Fruit, Leather, Dry Acidity. | Often used in sour beers to add complex, fruity notes. |
This is called flavor transformation. The wood, the previous spirit, and the element of time all work together to create something brand new.
Taste the Time: What to Expect
The final product is always deep and complex. As the beer rests, the wood slowly allows micro-amounts of oxygen in, which mellows the beer while the wood compounds release their unique flavors.
It’s a flavor explosion of:
- Vanilla & Caramel: Released from the charred oak structure.
- Spices: Clove or baking spices from the wood tannins.
- Oak & Tannin: A dry, slightly astringent character that balances the beer’s sweetness.
Next time you see a barrel-aged feature on our tap list, grab it. It’s a special pour that requires a slow sip. We recommend pairing it with our Loaded Fries or a side of our Nashville Hot Cheese Curds. The rich, boozy flavor of the beer is the ultimate counterpoint to a salty, cheesy, spicy dish.
Raise a Glass at M.L.Rose
At M.L.Rose, we’re proud to feature these special pours alongside your favorite burgers, wings, and shareables.
Stop by your nearest M.L.Rose and let’s get nerdy with some next-level craft beer.