Named after the once-infamous area of London on the Thames shoreline by “The Pool” where oceangoing ships laid anchor while awaiting replenishment of ships stores. Blackfriars was replete with small breweries that provisioned the ships that supplied the empire’s colonies and military. One of the more popular “ships stores” from Blackfriars was Barleywine, an incredible ale brewed to wine-like alcohol levels (hence the name). Ours is of the traditional variety, with a starting gravity of nearly 24° Plato and an alcohol content of 11.5% by volume. It is more highly hopped than most IPA’s (with a blend of five English and American varieties) but has a balanced taste and aroma due to the prodigious amount of malt present. The malts range from the legendary Maris Otter ale malt to Belgian Biscuit and Aromatic malts to recreate the unusual malt qualities of the original Barleywines of yesteryear. The high gravity fermentation produces many delicate fruity undertones that add complexity to the alcohol warmth and balanced bitterness. Barleywines are typically aged for at least six months and can be “laid down” for many years. Not highly carbonated, they are best enjoyed slowly to allow the complex flavors and aromas to unfold as the glass warms to the touch.