A decade ago, if a beer spent a few months in a single bourbon barrel, its release would cause fanfare amongst craft beer obsessives. These days, beers are blended from an increasing number of different barrels for extended periods of time, so we decided to sample beers that represent an increasing number of different barrels to see if more barrels actually means better results. To help us better understand the barrel side of the beer world, we talk to Ethan Schulenberg of Midwest Barrel Company, who provides a variety of barrels for a large number of American craft brewers. He explains the role of a “barrel broker” and how he helps brewers find the right vessel for aging, among many other topics. Also, Craig shouts out Revolution’s clever event planning, we challenge our highest ABV beer record, and one of us is slowing turning into E.T. by the end.

Ethan Schulenberg Interview  (00:06:49 - 00:45:26)

Beers Reviewed

Flipside Brewing - Barrel-Aged Decision Fatigue (Imperial Stout aged in Weller 12 barrels)

Mikerphone Brewing - Sweet Drams, vol. 2 (Triple Mash Imperial Stout aged 27 months in Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 15-Year barrels)

Half Acre Beer Co. - Triple Barrel Wilderness of History (Barleywine aged in Weller, Russell’s Reserve, and Cognac barrels)

More Brewing Company - Roaming Elephant (Barleywine aged in Eagle Rare 10 year, Parker’s Heritage 14 year, Elijah Craig 18 year, and Elijiah Craig 19 year barrels)