The Anchor Old Foghorn is an English-style Barleywine that seemed to be a bit lighter in its alcohol content at 8.8% ABV. That is, compared to some other ones I’ve had like the Dogfish Head Olde School which holds a massive 15.04% ABV. Having said that, the Old Foghorn is quite sessionable for the style, and that’s nothing to complain about.

I poured the 12 oz bottle into my snifter glass. It was a really pleasant ruby-brown color, with no head. Although, what was there of a head settled almost instantly into a thin tan ring around the glass. This is typical for Barleywines, minimal (if any) head with a nice glow to the body.

The smell was powerful and filled with a plethora of scents and flavors. Initially, Red Zinfandel wine dominants the nose but the sweeter notes start to then shine through. Sweet caramel, cherry cough syrup and crème brûlée. It’s overall a really pleasant balance, both dry and sweet.

The body on this is medium-bodied and surprisingly carbonated but not over done. The sweetness takes the dominant taste with caramelized, burnt sugar leading the way. Also mixed in are hints of cherry and raspberry fruit esters. The finish is dry, almost like a dry-wine, with a really slight, but noticeable, alcohol stickiness.

The Old Foghorn sets a really nice stage for a sessionable Barleywine. If judging by pure ABV, this may be a little outside the norm, but the taste and body make this something you could drink more than one of. While I probably would tire after two, this is great for sipping after dinner and even would pair great with a fruity and sugary desert. If you’re into Barleywines, this is one you cannot miss.

Overall: 8.7/10