Today’s burly brew is one of the Top 25 British Barleywines in the World on BeerAdvocate, and it won a Gold medal at the 2019 San Diego International Beer Competition for its layered complexity.

So it’s no big shock that Barleywine fans from coast to coast are looking to score a taste.

But when one hopeful seeker took to Smog City’s social media and asked how to get a bottle of today’s 2019 Barrel-Aged O.E. in Kansas, the brewers had a simple response:

“Fly to Los Angeles. Drive to Torrance. Buy a bottle.”

That is some brew-tal honesty, right there! But hordes of craft fans really do trek to the brewery each and every year to get their hands on this 14.1% ABV colossus. And when you open it up, you’ll understand exactly why they make the pilgrimage. 

As soon as you pour this caramel-colored brew into a glass, aromas of candied figs and rich toffee immediately fill the room. On the sip, it’s all about thick, syrupy malt with complex layers of date, honey, and bourbon heat. Subtle notes of oaky vanilla and barrel char flirt with the palate on the finish, begging you to take another sip. 

This year, you don’t have to join the throngs of craft fiends as they traverse the wilds of L.A. to get a sip of O.E. You can score a bottle or two right here. 

Rated 4.32 on Untappd; 4.19 on Tavour; 94/100 on BeerAdvocate