I think I should be pouring this one into a shot glass - an oaked version of the brewer's Quad which was happily reviewed in January 2006. 11.8%. Good Lord. The brewery notes that the aging was in bourbon barrel and was not extended to ensure much of the original ale's complexity was not lost.

Poured into a big spherical Grottenbier glass, a glowing orangey-red amber-ish ale under a thin white rim and foam. "Wow" goes the first sniff as lime and grapy scents mixed with whiskey vanilla. In the mouth a slightly syrupy body with fresh cherry, pear and vanilla, some pepper and structure from the bittering...not to mention plenty of heat. Still, not overwhelming and complimented rather than defined by the effect of the wood. The finish tends to a soft sweeter whiskey.

A full five percent of BAers have issues with this one. I don't. Complex and thoughtful, though not as deeply baked or immersively sherry-esque as the brewery's Insanity.