Red Brick Smoked Vanilla Gorilla

Today I'm drinking Red Brick Smoked Vanilla Gorilla brewed by Atlanta Brewing Company in Atlanta, Georgia. This beer, an ale aged in oak whiskey barrels with vanilla beans, is part of their Brick Mason Series. Not only is the label seriously crooked, at least 10 degrees from straight, but it's one of the most drab I've seen in a while. The colors don't contrast in the slightest making for a tough read, too. BTW, every bottle I saw from at least 3 cases worth, had the same crooked label, so I'm guessing quality control was an issue that day.

Smells like a malty porter with roasted nuts, whiskey and vanilla prominent. Go figure! I found the smoke a little harder to find until I stuck my nose right into the glass. But holy moley, let me tell you the smoke made up for its smell cameo on the palate performance. Very smokey with roasted chocolate flavors from the first drop. The whiskey flavors and edge are welcome and make the vanilla pop, also offering a light booziness.

There is quite a bit of that hickory bacon savory flavor, too. And while it is sweet, it doesn't start to feel like an out-of-place breakfast item was added to my beer. The whiskey really cuts that up to perfection. Wow! That ashy campfire aspect really does a number on the palate by the end too. The smooth texture is great. I appreciate some carbonation in an often flat style. Nice variation to a porter, complex and well-executed, especially for a bunch of Braves fans. :) I'd check it out again for sure!




Coffee - Gorilla Vanilla, 12 oz -- Adam's Organic Coffees


SmartWare Half Whiskey Barrel Planter