AleSmith Old Numbskull

This mahogany-colored, bottle-conditioned barley wine from the San Diego-based AleSmith brewery has a light-hearted name, but its flavor is anything but light. Exotic fruit, vanilla and caramel aromas are reminiscent of aged whiskey. Dried fruit flavors are noticeable and a heavy dose of hops gives it a bold bitterness to back up the maltiness of the beer. Its 11 per cent ABV brings warming alcohol notes throughout. If you have the patience, this beer will improve and thicken with age. The brewery also makes a barrel-aged version, with a year in bourbon barrels adding further depth and complexity.

Price: $13.99 for 750 ml