Golden Dragon is one of the most longstanding members of Red Duck's oeuvre, a limited release that's been appearing almost as long as the brewery has been in existence. And here the strong red ale has been given treatment worthy of an elder statesman: aged in barrels that previously housed bourbon, Tasmanian whisky, other Red Duck beers and Kilderkin Distillery single malt whisky.
The impact of said ageing has been to intensify the beer's already rich, malt-and-booze-driven nature. It opens with fortified toffee, treacly raisins, caramel malts, and fruity booze – all delivered with a spicy intensity. To taste, that spice is of the whisky ilk, while vanilla comes into play as it warms too. That said, it's the sticky, raisin-laced treacle that remains the defining characteristic of a beer reminiscent of an English old ale that finishes more dry than bitter.
James Smith
Published November 15, 2021 2021-11-15 00:00:00
