Astronomical ABVs. Barrel-Aging. Crushing intensity. With these tools, Avery Brewing Co. changed the craft landscape with boundary-pushing brews. When news broke that Avery was retiring two of their over 16% ABV behemoths, we didn’t waste any time - we grabbed the very last batches of each:

Samael Oak Aged Strong Ale- Laced with groves of nectarous fruits soaking in top-shelf liquor, this 16.3% ABV fire demon tastes closer to French cognac than craft beer. Aged in American oak with inclusions of raw Turbinado sugar, the result is voracious: Aromas of brown-sugar caramelized pineapples lure you into fountains of candied apricots, sugar plums, and ribbons of dark honey. (95 on RateBeer, 4.19 Untappd).

The Beast Oak Aged Strong Ale- Inviting the ravishing dark sweetness of dates, maple syrup, and alfalfa honey, with one sip of this 16.8% ABV Grand Cru, you’ll know why it’s called the Beast. Honey-glazed lemon peels and overripe grapefruits invigorate the senses with splashes of Grey Goose vodka heat. Resinous pears swirl in a tempest of herbal bitter and Bourbon spice. (97 on RateBeer, 4.14 Untappd)

Incinerating palates with boozy delights, these two brews showcase Avery at their most devilish, flavorful, and infinitely cellarable. And although the brewery’s fans will miss Samael and The Beast, their flavors will never fade from thought. Make sure to grab another bottle or two and cellar their memories for the future.

Samael: 95 on RateBeer, 4.19 Untappd

The Beast 97 on RateBeer, 4.14 Untappd

Avery Brewing Co. - Samael - $10.99 for a 12oz bottle

Style: Strong Ale, ABV: 16.3%

Avery Brewing Co. - The Beast - $10.99 for a 12oz bottle