The 12 oz bottle for the Stone Oaked Arrogant Bastard Ale proclaims that, “You’re not worthy.” However, if you deem yourself worthy enough to tango with this Strong Ale at 7.2% ABV, aged with American Oak wood chips, then by all means have at it.

The OAB (that name is too long to type multiple times) pours a hazy, reddish-brown (more brown than red) color. The beer had a beige head that was nice and fluffy at first but dissipated greatly as the beer disappeared. The OAB has a, what can only be described as an, incredible aroma. It manages to be greatly floral and hoppy with citrus and fruit notes. However, the oak brings a great wood element and darkens things up a bit.

The flavor is where the (well deserved) arrogance of this beer shows. There is a bit of a sweet taste at first followed by the hops mixed with the oak to provide some mild spice, which I assume is kept in check by the oak. There is also the lightest hint of mint mixed in there. The hops come back at the end and bitter things out a bit. A greatly complex and enjoyable beer.

I’m not completely convinced that the Oaked Arrogant Bastard is that much better than the regular Arrogant Bastard. It is certainly different but I don’t know if it is making the beer that much better or simply providing different flavors. Either way I’m a fan of both. I love the flavors of this beer and I would never turn one down, oaked or not.

Overall: 9/10