Alpine Beer Company's Great

 A Beer That Lives Up to Its Name

I had a great time at the San Diego Brewer's Guild Festival this past weekend. Great music, great location, great beer . . . and I mean it literally on that last item.

One of the little treats on hand was a barleywine called simply "Great." And it's why beer festivals are such a treat. This is one of those hard-to-get beers that you may only stumble upon occasionally at the brewery or at special events.

Kind of bittersweet to taste such a fine barleywine and know I have only a small chance of enjoying it again.

This beer was sweet and bready, with citrus and caramel flavors, as well as clear hints of the Jack Daniels barrels used to age it. I thought of tasty hard candies as I was sipping.

Now, if only I could make the experience last as long as a hard candy . . .

All too soon, my taster glass was empty and I was left wondering when I would experience greatness again.

The Beer Details Brewer: Alpine Beer Company (Alpine, CA) Style: Barleywine ABV: 15% Cost: Free taster with festival admission price

The Beer Extras Use this printable shopping list for more great beer finds. Try this easier-to-find but still great barleywine. Get to know the San Diego Brewer's Guild.

Want to try this beer? It has limited distribution, so start planning your trip to next year's San Diego Brewer's Guild fest and hope it shows up!.

Erin Malone is a Thursday Happy Hour contributing editor, providing the what's-up of beer all over on Fridays. Going to any beer festivals this fall? Let me know in the comments below. Or chat with me on Facebook.