7.9

Appearance - 8 | Aroma - 7.5 | Flavor - 8 | Texture - 8 | Overall - 8

I purchased a two-pack, 12 oz bottles, of this beer, as Lakewood likes to do with its anniversary issues, at a Total Wine in Ft. Worth late last year. The box indicates this brew as 2021 Release although I cannot find a date stamp on the bottles or their labels. No concerns, the contents should be all right. I have a snifter that has been handling the evening's duties and it is receiving the pour. I view a clear, medium dark gold liquid that is supported by a vigorous carbonation feeding a slender skim of pure white foam. The scent is strong with yellow fruit along with grain, floral and a vinous quality. Nothing all that exciting until now but I will say the taste is quite good, it rises above the appearance and the nose. Apricots, a large effect from the cabernet barrels, a touch of honey, flowers and perhaps some wood. Very supple, I get a full sensation. A nice beer, I am liking it more than anticipated.