Kev's Beer of the Week - Rye on Rye

Kev's Beer of the Week ending 6/2/12

Boulevard Rye-on-Rye

Kev Rating: A
Style: Rye Beer
ABV: 11.00%
IBUs: 47

Availability: Limited Release, part of their Smokestack Series
Had: 750ml bottle, purchased at Glendale Liquors in Waltham
Region: Kansas City, MO

Boulevard Brewing started showing up on shelves in Massachusetts pretty recently (less than a year).  I've had the pleasure of trying a lot of the beers they send our way and have always been satisfied.  One of their best offerings to date has been the Rye-on-Rye.  

This Rye Ale was aged on Oak Rye Whiskey Casks to really enhance the flavor profile.  I'll be honest, I'm not a big Whiskey drinker in general and am not too familiar with many Rye Whiskey's.  However, I'm always a big fan of a barrel aged beer; when done nicely.  

The Rye-on-Rye poured a beautiful dark color with a big foamy off-white head.  I let it settle for a bit and was rewarded with a delicious first sip - oak, woody earthiness, spicy rye malt.  As it warmed up a bit, the Rye Whiskey came through nicely and was definitely not overpowering.  I thought it was nicely balanced with the sweet vanilla from the oak and the spiciness from the rye malts...YUM!

I enjoyed this one a lot and look forward to snagging another bottle before they're all gone; yes they're still on shelves at most Craft Beer stores.