Alaskan Big Nugget Barley Wine (2004 vintage) took first place in judging that kicked off the Toronado Barley Wine Festival, which wraps up this weekend in San Francisco.
“I think it’s a real honor to win at the Toronado,†said Darin Jensen, an Alaskan Brewing quality assurance analyst and former brewer. “It’s great that our 2004 Big Nugget did so well, because it proves how well our barley wine ages.â€
Angel’s Share from Lost Abbey was second, while Hair of the Dog’s Doggie Claws and Uinta Brewing XI tied for third. Yes, Uinta, the 100% wind-powered Utah brewery.
Ninety judges assessed 54 beers in the competition, and as always it truly was a festival. Jay Brooks has photos to prove it.