You can’t claim to be a Barleywine Is Lifer until you’ve tried all the style’s top rated sweet booze-bombs in the world. Check another off your list today with 2017 Vintage Helldorado from Firestone Walker. This uniquely effervescent, 12.8% ABV Barrel-Aged Blonde Barleywine ranks among the Top 10 American Barleywines on BeerAdvocate.

Helldorado’s original composition and flavor profile make it stand out among other boozy brews from the multi-GABF Gold medal-winning Firestone Walker. Different from most Barleywines, the brewery uses only English and American Pale Malts in Helldorado, amplifying the brew with rich notes of butterscotch and nectarous honey. And its elevated foam levels and smooth citrusy hop character carefully balance out a boozy sweetness.

Its 12.8% ABV is unexpectedly mellow, and the head at the top of the pour will have you questioning if it was actually barrel-aged.  Let a sizeable sip linger on your tongue for a few extra seconds before swallowing and all that beautiful barrel character comes shining through in layers of sweet spiced oaky vanilla.  

Whether or not you’re a real Barleywine is Lifer makes no difference -- Helldorado should be on everyone’s wish-list who enjoys sweet, boozy, complex brews. It’s always a good day when you get to try something as highly acclaimed and distinctive as this.

#10 American Barleywine on BeerAdvocate with a 4.27 rating; 4.16 on Untappd