Feb 2003: "Double Barleywine" what the hell is that? These Vermont brewers, gotta have their gimmicks. Tawny, nearly opaque, viscous body, slight head dies quickly into a hazy film that remains. Nose is hoppy, sugary, fruity (apples), piney. Flavor very sweet and quite bitter (all the way through); rather simple but full and deep struggle between the light quick hoppy spearmen and the dark, thick, baked-apple malts soldiers; no winner in sight except the drinker. Palate a little on the syrupy side but strong and assertive; good medium-to-thick mouthfeel. Very good "young" barley wine; alcohol is noticeable but well-integrated into the overall profile. 7/4/8/5/17 4.1

Dec 2005: Can’t say that my description will change all that much, but I will say that the syrupy quality bothers me a lot more...on the other hand, the alcohol (whatever it is) is barely noticeable...until 1/2 hour later. Not a bad beer at all but more an alcohol delivery system than a subtle work of art...not at all JT’s best.