Beer Review 73: Midnight Sun Arctic Devil

Midnight Sun Brewery in Alaska is one of those breweries that if your really not a craft beer nerd you don't know much about, but I'm here to tell you that you should! Midnight Sun makes some of the most sought after beer's in the country and for a reason..... they are amazing! I want to to say that about 3 months ago I reviewed TREAT, their pumpkin chocolate porter, and it blew my mind. Shortly after that endeavor I made it my mission to search out all their other highly reputable beers, but the one I really wanted and finally got was Arctic Devil. This Beer is a barrel aged barleywine that just simply out shines most other barleywine's...it's that good. The complexity level and sublime drinkability of Arctic Devil is off the charts, its layered with tons mouth watering flavors that leave you wanting more. This is one of those beers that you just never want to run out off or come down to your final sip. Moreover, this beer isn't simple to find, if you live outside of Alaska, Washington, Oregon, you're gonna find yourself going crazy trying to find it. Even California and Idaho get some, but not very much, so before you know it its gone. Furthermore, Arctic Devil isn't available year round. Its a winter release and like stated earlier it has very minimal distribution. Some other important facts about Arctic Devil:
Its bottled at a smooth 13.4% abv in 22oz bottles, it cost anywhere from $12-$17 dollars depending in which state you buy it in, and should be served in 6oz servings and in the proper glassware such as a snifter or wide mouth tulip. I fully endorse this beer, so go buy it or trade for it. As a matter of fact get multiples so you can cellar a few because this beer will just keep getting better over time. Lastly, I usually like to tell you what kind of food goes well with the beer being reviewed, but screw that this time, this beer should just be enjoyed as is!

Color: It shines a caramel/copper color with a light off-white head that quickly dissolves into a dime thick ring around the glass. No head retention and minor lacing.

Nose: Wow!!!! Caramel,vanilla,bourbon, and mold oak shine. As the beer warms hints of toffee and dried apples appear. Just a wonderful aroma emanates from this beer.

Palate: Regal... yes I said it, this beer is just that... regal. Once this beer hits your tongue it is an elegant presentation of flavor and craftsmanship. For such a high abv this beer is highly drinkable. The alcohol is well masked and the carbonation is just right. Waves of bourbon and caramel hit your taste buds first, followed by the smoothness of the vanilla and the boldness of the oak. Gentle fruit appears as the beer warms adding another level of complexity.

Finish: Warm,smooth, and mildly sweet. the taste of bourbon lingers with hints of vanilla at the back end of the tongue. This beer is at another level... simply outstanding and an achievement in beer making.

Rating: 97/100