4. The Vintage Brew: Barrel-Aged Beer

Picobrouwerij Alvinne Bolleville

Belgian ale + Calvados apple-brandy casks x six months = A brown beer with notes of caramelized cider and smoke. $20; wlvliquors.com

Birrificio Montegioco Dolii Raptor

Italian ale + Barbera wine barrels x six months = An easy-drinking amber brew with balanced, food-friendly acidity. $13; luekensliquors.com

J.W. Lees Harvest Ale

English barleywine + Cream-sherry casks x four months = A low-fizz, low-foam specimen tinged with raisin, honey, and pear flavors. $9; klwines.com

Anchorage Brewing Company Tide and Its Takers

Belgian-style tripel + Chardonnay barrels x eight months = A citrusy, briskly carbonated beer with ripe earthiness. $15; klwines.com



Also on Details.com
The Best New Beer Cocktails
Black Beer: The Brew of the Moment
Growlers: The Best Way to Serve Beer at Barbecues